The Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, SSRI’s, remain the number one choice for the treatment of OCD. All people with OCD have some abnormalities of the brain neuromodulator serotonin – some are high and others are low. Some types of OCD are effected by the brain modulators dopamine and/or norepinephrine. Frequently more than one medication is needed to help get back to normal. The FDA studies of medications for OCD focus on getting better, but not well. In order to achieve full recovery from symptoms one medication may not be adequate. If a medication is not working try something else. TMS, brain stimulation, or surgery may be effective if all else fails.
OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER MEDICATIONS
Primary
Paxil*, Zoloft*, Prozac*, Luvox*, Effexor XR, Celexa, Lexapro, Anafranil*
Second Line
Klonopin, Abilify, Zyprexa, Risperdal, Stimulants, Geodon, Seroquel
Others
Wellbutrin SR, Xanax, Buspar, Trazodone, Remeron, Lithium, Clonidine, Anticonvulsants, Ativan
*FDA approved
