![]() 2 Since the 1980’s, over 20 studies have found SSRI monotherapy, or treatment with one medication, to be effective. 2 If a person does not improve on an SSRI, a prescriber may then decide to try a different type of medication like clomipramine. However, SSRIs like paroxetine and fluoxetine are often recommended first because they are considered safe and effective with a low risk for serious side effects. Each person responds to medication differently. It’s hard to say what is the best medication for OCD, because what is best for one person may not be best for another. Because of the potential risks, prescribers always weigh the pros and cons before prescribing this medication to determine whether it is best for the patient. In 2011, the FDA issued a black-box warning for doses of Celexa that are over 40mg because of the risk of developing arrhythmias and ECG abnormalities. 2,8 While it is not FDA-approved for the treatment of OCD, studies have shown that it is effective for alleviating symptoms of OCD and some providers will prescribe it off-label for this purpose. CelexaĬelexa, also known by the generic citalopram, is also an SSRI. Zoloft is also used to treat depression, social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and PMDD. 7,8 Like other SSRIs, Zoloft is considered generally safe, but can cause certain side effects. Zoloft, which is also available as the generic sertraline, is another SSRI that is approved for treating OCD in people ages six and older. Fluvoxamine may also be prescribed to treat depression and social anxiety disorder. Prescribers tend to avoid prescribing fluvoxamine with clomipramine, because these medications together can increase the risk of seizures and arrhythmia. Doses of up to 300 mg may be prescribed to help alleviate OCD symptoms. 2,6 It is FDA-approved for adults and children over eight years old. Fluvoxamineįluvoxamine was the first SSRI shown to be effective for the treatment of OCD. In addition to OCD, paroxetine is also used to treat depression, generalized and social anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and panic disorder. 2,5 Doses of up to 100mg of paroxetine may be needed to manage OCD symptoms. ![]() ![]() Paroxetine, also sold under the brand names Paxil and Pexeva, is another type of SSRI that is used to treat OCD. The medication is FDA-approved for children seven years and older. In addition to OCD, fluoxetine is also used to treat depression, panic attacks, certain eating disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Fluoxetine (Prozac)įluoxetine, or Prozac, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that also affects serotonin levels in the brain, but has a lower risk for harmful side effects. ![]() If you are prescribed clomipramine, your provider will discuss the possibility of side effects and closely monitor you. Because of the potential for developing these side effects, providers are cautious in prescribing this medication. These side effects are more likely at high doses of 250mg or more. However, clomipramine can cause certain side effects, including: 2,3 This medication has been used since the 1980’s as a treatment for OCD and is considered effective for adults and children over 10 years old. There are several different types of medications that are effective for treating OCD: Clomipramine (Anafranil)Ĭlomipramine, also sold under the brand name Anafranil, is a tricyclic antidepressant that works on the serotonin receptors in the brain. If they feel like medication is right for you, they will provide you with a prescription and discuss how often and how much you should take, as well as any potential side effects. They will be able to set up an evaluation where they will ask you several questions about your symptoms and history to help determine whether you could benefit from medication for your OCD. Depending on your insurance, you might need a referral to meet with one. If you are thinking about medication for OCD, you can start by speaking with your physician or seeking a consultation with a psychiatric provider like a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. If your symptoms of OCD are interfering with your life, causing you distress, and not improving with just therapy, then you may want to consider whether medication may be right for you. 1 Some people with mild OCD may be able to recover with therapy alone, but if symptoms are moderate to severe, then treatment usually includes both therapy and medication. Medication is often recommended as a treatment for OCD.
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