PS10. OCD: Biological Treatments

Question 1

SSRI’s (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Answer 1

• prevent reuptake and breakdown of serotonin in the pre-synaptic neuron (FREEZES SEROTONIN IN SYNAPTIC GAP)
• concentration of serotonin within synapse then increases, causing post-synaptic neuron to be continually stimulated

Question 2

Tricyclics (SNRI’s)

Answer 2

• similar effects to SSRI’s, but reserved for those who don’t respond well to SSRI’s
• SNRI’s (Selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors) increase concentration of noradrenaline [neurotransmitter] in the brain

Question 3

• Eval: Side-Effects

Answer 3

• e.g. Clomipramine SE’s
• 1/10 suffer ED, weight gain, tremors
• 1/100 suffer increased HR and aggressiveness

Question 4

+ Eval: Economic Benefit

Answer 4

• increased knowledge about effectiveness of drug treatments can reduce sick days or time off from work
• therefore increase workforce productivity, therefore working more, paying more tax, and contributing to economy more