Biological Approach To Treating OCD

Question 1

Describe what drug therapy aims to do

Answer 1

Aims to increase/ decrease levels of neurotransmitter in the brain

Question 2

What are SSRIs and how do they work?

Answer 2

(Selective serotonin re uptake inhibitor)
Antidepressants that work on the serotonin system in the brain by preventing re absorption and breakdown.

SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the synapse to continue stimulation of postsynaptic neurone.

(Fluoxetine 20mg usual dosage)

Question 3

Explain why SSRIs are usually used alongside other treatments

Answer 3

Drugs + CBT to treat OCD. As the drug reduces symptoms allowing the patient to engage with CBT.

Question 4

Explain what Tricyclics are

Answer 4

(Clomipramine)
Same effect as SSRIs som kept in reserve for patients whom don’t respond to SSRIs

Question 5

What are SNRIs and what do they do?

Answer 5

These increase levels of serotonin and noradrenaline
Used for patients who don’t respond to SSRIs

Question 6

Are SSRIs effective for treating OCD? (AO3)

Answer 6

Soomro et al: reviewed studies by comparing SSRIs to placebo in treating OCD. Better results in SSRIs group. This effect greaten when paired with CBT.

Symptoms decline 70% of patients. Of remaining 30% alternative drugs can help

Question 7

Explain how drugs are effective (AO3)

Answer 7

Cost effective and non disruptive

Cheaper than CBT and drugs can be used by the NHS. Compared to CBT SSRIs are non disruptive to patients lives. Many doctors like drugs for this reason.

Question 8

Explain one limitation of drugs (AO3)

Answer 8

Side effects

Some patients experience indigestion, blurred vision and loss of sex drive.

Clomipramine side effects more common and serious. 1 in 10 experience errection problems, weight gain and tremors. 1 in 100 experience aggressive behaviour and suffer blood pressure and heart rhythm problems