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The biological approach to treating OCD (Evaluation (Effectiveness, Drug…
The biological approach to treating OCD
Key terms
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) - a neurotransmitter that regulates excitement in the nervous system, thus acting as a natural form of anxiety reducer.
Noradrenaline - a neurotransmitters found in mainly in areas of the brain that are involved in governing autonomic nervous system activity, e.g. blood pressure or heart rate.
Serotonin - a neurotransmitter implicated in many different behaviours and physiological processes, including aggression, eating behaviour, sleep and depression.
Anti-depressants: SSRI's and tricyclics
SSRI's
Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are currently the preferred drug for treating anxiety disorders.
Increase levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, which regulates mood and anxiety neuron
Serotonin is released into a synapse from one nerve. It targets receptors cells on the receiving neuron at receptors sites and, afterwards is re-absorbed by the initial neuron sending the message. In order to increase levels of serotonin at the synapse, and increase stimulation to the receiving neuron, this re-absorption is inhibited.
Tricyclics
Was the first antidepressant to be used for OCD
blocks the transporter mechanism that re-absorbs both serotonin and noradrenaline into pre-synaptic cell after it has fired. As a result, more of these neurotransmitters are left in the synapse, prolonging their activity, and easing transmission of the next impulse.
Anti-anxiety drugs + other drugs
Benzodiazepines (BZs) are commonly used to reduce anxiety
BZs slow down your activity of the central nervous system by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, a neurotransmitter that when released has a general quieting effect on many of the neurons in the brain
Reacting with special sites on the outside of receiving neuron. When GABA locks into these receptors it opens a channel that increases the flow of chloride ions into the neuron. Chloride ions make it harder for the neuron to be stimulated by other neurotransmitters, thus slowing down its activity and making the person feel more relaxed.
Evaluation
Effectiveness
Drug therapies are preferred to other treatment
Side effects
Not a lasting cure
Publication bias