biological treatment of OCD

Question 1

strength: RTS SOOMRO ET AL

Answer 1

reviewed 17 studies of use of SSRI’s, found drugs more effective in reducing symptoms compared to placebos, symptoms reduced in 70%, 30% helped with alternative drug or combination of drugs and therapy, shows effectiveness of drug therapy

Question 2

weakness: SKAPINAKIS ET AL

Answer 2

may not be most effective treatment available, systematic review of outcome studies, both cognitive and behavioral exposure therapies were more effective than SSRI’s, drugs may not be optimum treatment

Question 3

strength: little motivation

Answer 3

patients only have to remember to take a tablet, CBT requires motivation to attend sessions to challenge irrational thoughts, some patients may prefer drug therapy + more cost effective for NHS, can spend therapy money elsewhere

Question 4

weakness: side effects

Answer 4

may not be appropriate for everyone, SSRI’s can cause nausea headaches and insomnia, patients may become distressed from side effects and stop taking medication, reduces effectiveness of drug therapy.