Types of Medication for OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder that can cause a person to feel compelled to do things repeatedly, such as washing their hands, checking the stove, or counting items. It is characterized by distressing and repetitive thoughts (obsession) that often compel a person to perform a repetitive action or behavior (compulsion).

Warning signs of OCD are different for everyone. The most common signs include:

• Compulsions to wash hands
• Checking things repetitively
• Having repeated thoughts
• Repeating actions over and over
• Counting in certain patterns
• Silently repeating a prayer, word, or phrase
• Arranging canned goods to face the same way
• Trouble with concentrating
• Feel like something bad will happen if they don't do something repetitively 
• Feeling nervous about certain things in their environment
• Unwanted thoughts, including aggression, or sexual or religious subjects

However, some people may have other symptoms such as excessive cleaning or hoarding items.

Antidepressants are the first choice of treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), particularly serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medications increase serotonin concentration in the brain to prevent OCD symptoms. Depletion in serotonin levels can lead to miscommunication between the nerves in the brain.

Some examples include:

• Fluoxetine 
• Fluvoxamine
• Clomipramine 
• Citalopram
• Escitalopram
• Paroxetine
• Sertraline

Clomipramine has been commonly prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, one best medicine might not be appropriate for all. It may work in some people but may be noneffective in others.

Common side effects of serotonin reuptake inhibitors include:

• Nervousness
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Sedation
• Dizziness
• Weight gain

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur because of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Not all medicines for obsessive-compulsive disorder are safe during pregnancy. Hence, it is necessary to consult your physician before taking these medications.

Avoid drinking alcohol when you take medications for the obsessive-compulsive disorder as alcohol can interact with these medicines.