PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER: CURRENT APPROACHES

Authors

  • Ryan Rafael Barros de Macedo Author
  • José Micael Delgado Barbosa Author
  • Rafaela Mora Author
  • Shely Pinto Frazão Rodrigues Author
  • Maria Eduarda Cavalcanti Vieira Author
  • Ademir Cavalcante Carmin Junior Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56238/levv16n51-078

Keywords:

Obsessive-compulsive Disorder, Pharmacological Treatment, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, Adjuvant Therapies

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic neuropsychiatric condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions that severely impact individuals' quality of life. Pharmacological treatment, along with psychotherapeutic interventions, constitutes the fundamental pillar of the therapeutic approach. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) stands out as the first-line psychotherapeutic treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), due to its robust and well-established theoretical and empirical basis. (Shely Frazão) This article critically reviews the main current pharmacological strategies, discussing the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the role of clomipramine, and alternatives in resistant cases. In light of recent evidence, the integration of glutamatergic system modulator agents, 5-HT3 antagonists, and atypical antipsychotics as augmentation strategies stands out, as well as new evidence for non-invasive neuromodulation and intensive cognitive-behavioral therapy.

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Published

2025-08-27

How to Cite

DE MACEDO, Ryan Rafael Barros; BARBOSA, José Micael Delgado; MORA, Rafaela; RODRIGUES, Shely Pinto Frazão; VIEIRA, Maria Eduarda Cavalcanti; CARMIN JUNIOR, Ademir Cavalcante. PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER: CURRENT APPROACHES. LUMEN ET VIRTUS, [S. l.], v. 16, n. 51, p. e7616 , 2025. DOI: 10.56238/levv16n51-078. Disponível em: https://periodicos.newsciencepubl.com/LEV/article/view/7616. Acesso em: 5 dec. 2025.