The biological approach to treating ocd Flashcards
What does drug therapy do?
targets abnormal neurotransmitter levels
What are the two drugs?
-SSRI’s (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
-Anti-Anxiety drugs
What are SSRI’s?
-(Fluoxetine and Prozac) antidepressants used to reduce the anxiety associated with OCD.
-currently the preferred drug for treating OCD.
What do SSRI’s do?
-increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which
regulates mood and anxiety.
How do SSRI’s work?
-by blocking the re-absorption of serotonin at the pre-synaptic nerve; therefore, leaving more serotonin available in the synapse.
What is the end result of SSRI’s?
-increased amount of serotonin available to be taken up by other neurons
When is it reasonable to expect that drugs that increase serotonin levels will prove effective in treating OCD?
If a deficiency of serotonin is associated with the development of OCD
How long does it take for SSRI’s to have much impact in symptoms?
Three to four months
What are anti anxiety drugs used to do? (Anxiolytic Drugs)
Certain anxiolytics are used to treat the anxiety associated with OCD
What anxiolytic drugs are widely used?
-Benzodiazepines (BZ’s)
-(Valium, diazepam)
How do anxiolytic drugs work?
-by increasing the effectiveness of a neurochemical called GABA.
What does GABA do?
GABA has a quietening effect on brain activity and this reduces the anxiety
experienced by OCD sufferers.
