OCD Best Medication

Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental condition that can negatively affect the lives of OCD patients. The obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can override everything else in life, from work to personal relationships. There are varying degrees of this condition, but nearly every case can be effectively helped by finding the best medication for OCD. This article will delve into the medications used for OCD to help patients make the best choice for their unique situations.

Antidepressants
In the majority of obsessive compulsive disorder cases, the best medication for OCD will be an antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI. These drugs work by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Researchers have found that many patients diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder have lower levels of serotonin than the rest of the population. However, not all SSRIs have been proven effective in treating obsessive compulsive disorder. The best medication for OCD in this category includes Anafranil, Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft. These have all been approved by the FDA for treating OCD.

Side Effects
All of these drugs do have some side effects that may include nausea, dry mouth and sexual side effects. Some patients report increased drowsiness while others complain of a heightened sense of energy and an inability to sit still. In rare cases, patients may become suicidal when on these medications. It is important to be evaluated regularly by a medical professional when you are taking them and to report suicidal thoughts to your doctor right away. Most doctors will try to limit side effects once they find the best medication for OCD. This usually includes prescribing the smallest dose possible to get the desired results. Nearly all side effects will stop when the patient discontinues use of the medication.

Other Medications
In some cases, the best medication for OCD is not an SSRI alone. Instead, patients are given neuroleptic drugs like Haldol and Thorazine in addition to the antidepressant. These medications have been proven to be especially effective in OCD patients who experience symptoms like tics, repetitive eye blinking and a nervous cough. However, these medications can cause permanent neurological side effects and should be used sparingly and over the short term whenever possible. There are newer drugs on the market that provide similar results but without the neurological problem. These include Clozaril and Risperdol and they have been used recently for OCD patients with satisfactory results.

When weighing the options in finding the best medication for OCD, the bottom line is that the best medicine is whichever works the best for you. Work with your doctor to find the best medication for OCD and enjoy more symptom-free days.