Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are the primary medications used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These medications help to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of OCD by improving mood and reducing anxiety. Research has demonstrated that SSRIs can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors in individuals with OCD. While antipsychotics may be used in certain cases, particularly when OCD symptoms are severe or when there is a co-occurring condition, they are not typically the first line of treatment. Benzodiazepines and mood stabilizers are generally not indicated for OCD as they do not specifically target the underlying symptoms of the disorder. Therefore, the use of antidepressants aligns effectively with established treatment protocols for OCD, making them the first choice in medication management.