Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which neurotransmitter do SSRIs primarily increase to help treat OCD?
Which neurotransmitter do SSRIs primarily increase to help treat OCD?
- GABA
- Norepinephrine
- Dopamine
- Serotonin (correct)
Benzodiazepines are used to increase the activity of the Central Nervous System (CNS).
Benzodiazepines are used to increase the activity of the Central Nervous System (CNS).
False (B)
What is one major potential side effect of using SSRIs?
What is one major potential side effect of using SSRIs?
Nausea
The drug therapy for OCD may not address the ______ cause of the disorder.
The drug therapy for OCD may not address the ______ cause of the disorder.
Match the following antidepressants with their descriptions:
Match the following antidepressants with their descriptions:
What is a key benefit of combining drug therapy with therapies like CBT?
What is a key benefit of combining drug therapy with therapies like CBT?
Patients often relapse immediately after stopping their medication for OCD.
Patients often relapse immediately after stopping their medication for OCD.
What is one reason why some patients discontinue their OCD medication early?
What is one reason why some patients discontinue their OCD medication early?
Flashcards
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
A type of antidepressant that increases serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reabsorption. This helps normalize mood and anxiety circuits.
Tricyclics
Tricyclics
A type of antidepressant that blocks the reabsorption of both serotonin and norepinephrine, prolonging their activity in the brain. They have a broader impact on neurotransmitters but also tend to have more side effects than SSRIs.
Benzodiazepines (BZs)
Benzodiazepines (BZs)
A type of anti-anxiety medication that slows down the Central Nervous System (CNS), enhancing GABA's relaxing effect. This helps reduce anxiety.
Biological Treatment of OCD
Biological Treatment of OCD
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Benefits of Drug Therapy for OCD
Benefits of Drug Therapy for OCD
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Limitations of Drug Therapy for OCD
Limitations of Drug Therapy for OCD
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Insomnia - A Side Effect of SSRIs
Insomnia - A Side Effect of SSRIs
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Addiction - A Side Effect of Benzodiazepines
Addiction - A Side Effect of Benzodiazepines
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Study Notes
Biological Treatment of OCD
- Antidepressants are used to reduce anxiety associated with OCD.
- SSRIs (e.g., Prozac) increase serotonin levels and regulate mood, to normalise the brain circuit.
- SSRIs prevent serotonin reabsorption and breakdown.
- Tricyclics (e.g., clomipramine) block serotonin and norepinephrine reabsorption, prolonging activity.
- Tricyclics target more neurotransmitters but have more side effects.
- Anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., benzodiazepines, Valium) reduce anxiety by increasing GABA activity.
Drug Therapy Benefits and Drawbacks
- Drugs can reduce anxiety and depression, allowing for a normal life.
- Drugs motivate patients to seek help for thoughts and behaviors.
- Drugs facilitate CBT therapies by helping with thought/behaviour changes.
- Short-term effectiveness like up to 3 months (with SSRIs).
- Drug therapy is quicker than therapies like CBT.
- Requires less time and effort than other therapies.
- Taking just one pill instead of many sessions with therapists.
Side Effects of Drug Therapy
- SSRIs can cause nausea, headaches, and insomnia.
- Benzodiazepines may induce aggressiveness, memory problems, and potential addiction.
- Side effects might outweigh benefits, stopping treatment.
- Drug therapy may not cure root causes; symptoms may return when stopped.
- Relapse is common if medication is stopped.
- Drugs may take 4-12 weeks to take effect.
- Some patients stop treatment expecting immediate results.
Additional Notes
- Psychotherapy like CBT may be more effective than drug therapy alone.
- Drug therapy is commonly used because of quicker access, but is not a cure on its own.
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