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Obsessive-compulsive disorder: diagnosis and treatment
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville 32610-0256, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|September 16, 1999
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). For treatment-resistant cases, alternative strategies like switching SSRIs or using novel therapies are recommended.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and disabling anxiety disorder.
- It is characterized by obsessions and compulsive behaviors, often comorbid with depression and anxiety.
- OCD significantly impacts personal, social, and occupational functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on the diagnosis and medical management of OCD.
- To discuss guidelines for using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in OCD treatment.
- To explore novel approaches for managing treatment-refractory OCD cases.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and treatment guidelines for OCD.
- Focus on pharmacologic interventions, particularly SSRIs.
- Exploration of alternative and experimental treatments for non-responsive patients.
Main Results:
- SSRIs are the primary pharmacologic treatment for OCD due to their safety and efficacy.
- Treatment involves a 10-12 week trial with adequate SSRI doses.
- For non-responders, options include switching SSRIs, combination therapy, or novel/experimental treatments.
Conclusions:
- SSRIs form the cornerstone of OCD pharmacotherapy.
- A stepwise approach is necessary for treatment-resistant OCD.
- Novel and non-pharmacologic biological treatments offer alternatives for refractory cases.