General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
In diagnosed OCD, some antidepressants are prescribed for their anti-obsessional effect. The name of this medicine family does not by itself mean that depression has been diagnosed.
The choice depends on severity and everyday difficulties. The psychiatrist and GP coordinate care; ask which goal the medicine addresses in your circumstances.
Its effect is usually not immediate: Ameli describes a delay of three to four weeks. Clarify when effectiveness will be reviewed; no benefit in the first few days is not a reason to change the dose yourself.
The prescription may last a long time and be combined with cognitive behavioural therapy. In severe forms, reducing symptoms with medicine may help the person begin psychotherapy afterwards.
Report a side effect to the doctor immediately. Provide a list of other treatments and ask about interactions; precautions differ between medicines and between individuals.
When stopping is considered, it must be very gradual and planned with the prescriber. Abrupt or overly rapid stopping can bring symptoms back; plan follow-up rather than interrupting doses yourself.
Sources
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