In obsessive-compulsive disorder, which pharmacologic agents are listed as effective in addition to behavioral therapy?

In obsessive-compulsive disorder, which pharmacologic agents are listed as effective in addition to behavioral therapy?

• A. Beta-blockers
• B. Tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs
• C. Antipsychotics
• D. MAO inhibitors

Answer: (B)

Obsessional and compulsive symptoms respond best to medications that boost serotonin signaling, used in addition to behavior therapy. The agents with the strongest evidence for reducing OCD symptoms are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, often at higher doses than used for depression, and a tricyclic antidepressant with potent anti-obsessional effects, such as clomipramine. This combination reflects the core pharmacologic approach to OCD, targeting the serotonergic circuits implicated in the disorder. Other drug classes—beta-blockers, MAO inhibitors, or antipsychotics—do not have the same level of efficacy as first-line pharmacotherapy for OCD (though antipsychotics may be used to augment treatment in difficult cases).

Obsessional and compulsive symptoms respond best to medications that boost serotonin signaling, used in addition to behavior therapy. The agents with the strongest evidence for reducing OCD symptoms are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, often at higher doses than used for depression, and a tricyclic antidepressant with potent anti-obsessional effects, such as clomipramine. This combination reflects the core pharmacologic approach to OCD, targeting the serotonergic circuits implicated in the disorder. Other drug classes—beta-blockers, MAO inhibitors, or antipsychotics—do not have the same level of efficacy as first-line pharmacotherapy for OCD (though antipsychotics may be used to augment treatment in difficult cases).