Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects millions of people in the U.S. alone. While there are many treatment options available, medication for OCD has been proven to reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Knowing how these medications work and what to expect can help you feel more confident about your treatment plan.
Yes, antidepressants are a common treatment option for OCD. These medications target chemical imbalances in the brain, which helps provide relief from symptoms.
Several types of medications are used to treat OCD. The first line of treatment is usually Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), but other options, like tricyclic antidepressants and off-label medications, may be considered for patients with treatment-resistant OCD.
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed medications for OCD. They work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood and emotional regulation. Per the American Psychiatric Association, common SSRIs and their dosages include:
Medication | Minimum Dosage | Maximum Dosage |
Sertraline | 50 mg | 200 mg |
Paroxetine | 20 mg | 60 mg |
Citalopram | 20 mg | 80 mg |
Clomipramine | 25 mg | 250 mg |
Escitalopram | 10 mg | 40 mg |
Fluoxetine | 20 mg | 80 mg |
Fluvoxamine | 50 mg | 300 mg |
Research suggests that SSRIs are most effective when doses reach 40 mg fluoxetine equivalent. However, increasing doses beyond this point can result in decreased efficacy and may cause more side effects.
Tricyclic antidepressants are a second-line of treatment for OCD. Although they work similarly to SSRIs by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, they also block other receptors like norepinephrine and histamine. This can lead to more adverse side effects.
Clomipramine is a common tricyclic antidepressant that is used for OCD. However, it is generally reserved for patients who do not respond well to SSRIs due to its less favorable side effects. Despite this, it has shown similar efficacy to SSRIs in reducing OCD symptoms.
For patients who do not fully respond to SSRIs or clomipramine, off-label medications like antipsychotics may be added as supplemental therapies. While not FDA-approved for OCD, certain antipsychotics have shown benefits for treatment-resistant cases. Commonly recommended antipsychotics and their dosages include:
Medication | Starting Dose | Suggested Dose |
Aripiprazole | 2-5 mg | 15-30 mg |
Haloperidol | 1-2 mg | 2-4 mg |
Olanzapine | 2.5-5 mg | 5-10 mg |
Quetiapine | 50-150 mg | 150-600 mg |
Risperidone | 0.25-1 mg | 1-2 mg |
One-third of patients with treatment-resistant OCD show a positive response to adjunctive antipsychotic therapy. These medications are often prescribed in low doses to minimize potential side effects.
While medications for OCD can be effective, they may come with side effects, especially during the first weeks of treatment. SSRIs are often well tolerated, but common side effects may include:
These side effects typically go away after the first few weeks of consistent use as the body adjusts to the medication.
Clomipramine can cause a wider range of side effects due to its influence on multiple neurotransmitter systems. Common side effects include:
Rare but serious side effects may include heart issues such as arrhythmia and QTc prolongation, seizures or hyperthermia, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts.
Lastly, while antipsychotics can be effective in treatment-resistant cases, they may worsen OCD symptoms in some cases.
Most mild side effects improve as the body adjusts to the medication. However, there are steps you can take to manage any discomfort you might experience:
It’s important that you stay in communication with your doctor. They can adjust your dosage or help you explore other treatments if necessary.
Before taking medicine for your OCD, it may be a good idea to weigh the potential benefits and risks. Here are some tips to make sure medication is the right treatment for you:
By following the above steps, you and your doctor can come up with the best treatment plan for you and your needs.
For many patients, a combination of therapy and medication is the most effective treatment for OCD. Clinical research supports the benefits of integrated care:
Other treatments besides CBT can also be used alongside medication to see better results. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), for example, exposes patients to their triggers in a safe environment so they can develop coping skills to keep their compulsive behaviors from taking over.
For treatment-resistant cases, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for OCD may be beneficial as well. It’s non-invasive and often has fewer side effects than medications, so patients can go about their day with minimal interruption.
While medication has been shown to minimize the symptoms of OCD, it won’t make symptoms completely disappear. This is why many healthcare providers recommend additional treatments that provide real-life coping strategies to help patients address and manage their triggers.
While almost any doctor can prescribe medication for OCD, working with a Los Angeles board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in mental health is often the best choice. Psychiatrists with experience treating OCD will have in-depth knowledge of the condition, and they’ll be up to date on the latest research so they can provide their patients with the best possible care. If you’re looking for medication for OCD in L.A., reach out to a trusted local mental health provider to find the right medication and support you need.
Who Gets OCD? – International OCD Foundation
Drug Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – U.S. Pharmacist
Moving beyond first-line treatment options for OCD – Mental Health Clinician
Antipsychotic-Induced Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – Rho Chi Post
Optimizing first line treatments for adults with OCD – Comprehensive Psychiatry
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
