Modern Medication Reference for OCD

There are various types of Obsessive Compulsive Mediations available with a prescription. Talk to your physician if you think an OCD medication may be right for you.

Antidepressants

Currently, the most effective medications to treat OCD belong in the family known as antidepressants. The five most commonly prescribed OCD medications are fluvoxamine (Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and clomipramine (Anafranil).
Anafranil is the oldest medication used to treat OCD and belongs to a group of antidepressants called tricyclic antidepressants. It was considered the first breakthrough drug in treating OCD and it has been used since the 70’s. It has a strong effect on serotonin, and it affects dopamine as well.

SSRIs

Newer drugs that specifically target serotonin have also been used as Obsessive Compulsive medication. These newer drugs are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs selectively target serotonin.

Dosages

OCD sufferers often need to take higher dosages of medication than those with depression. Taking higher doses of medications means a greater likelihood of experiencing side effects. Many of the side effects are mild and tolerable. Sometimes it is a matter of switching medications to find the one that provides relief with the least side effects. Often, side effects diminish on their own over time.

Side effects may include:

• Sleep problems
• Restlessness
• Weight fluctuations
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Dizziness
• Sexual dysfunction