PHARMACOTHERAPY IN OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD): BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES IN PERSONALIZING TREATMENT

Abstract

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions that significantly affect patients' quality of life. This article reviews the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of OCD, with an emphasis on Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), which are the first line of intervention. The methodology involved a systematic review of recent studies, selected from the PubMed, Scielo and PsycINFO databases. The results indicate that although SSRIs are effective in reducing symptoms, higher doses are often necessary, and personalization of treatment is essential. The combination of pharmacotherapy with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly with the Exposure with Response Prevention (EPR) technique, has been shown to be superior to monotherapy in terms of efficacy and relapse prevention. Final considerations highlight the importance of adjusting treatment to patients' individual needs to optimize therapeutic benefits and improve treatment adherence, facing challenges related to variability in response and side effects of medications.