Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Medications
There are several medications that have been shown to be effective for people with OCD. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs have been shown to be effective in OCD. The exact mechanism by which SSRIs work is unknown. SSRIs are thought to help restore the chemical balance of serotonin in the body. This is believed to help people by allowing the brain to send and receive messages better. SSRIs are usually prescribed to patients as a first-line treatment. If one of the SSRIs doesn't work, the prescribing physician may prescribe other SSRIs or other types of drugs, or combinations of SSRIs with other drugs.[1]*
SSRIs are typically the first type of drug used in the treatment of OCD. Some patients may require higher dosages of SSRIs than are needed in other disease states.[1] SSRI treatment for OCD usually continues for 1 to 2 years and then is gradually tapered off while the doctor monitors carefully for the return of symptoms.[1]
*Not all SSRIs are FDA-approved for OCD for long term use. SSRIs are not approved with other SSRIs nor in combination with other medications. Approved dose ranges for OCD medications may vary; please see individual package inserts. Please discuss your treatment regimen with your doctor.
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