Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

Which medication is a common treatment for both depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder?

1. Buspirone

2. Venlafaxine

3. Luvox

4. Desipramine

The correct answer is: Luvox

The correct answer is Luvox, also known as fluvoxamine. Luvox is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is specifically indicated for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In addition to its effectiveness for OCD, it is also used to treat major depressive disorder. This dual effectiveness makes it a common choice in clinical settings for individuals who are experiencing symptoms of both conditions. SSRIs, including Luvox, work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. In the case of OCD, SSRIs help decrease the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Their broad use in treating depression further solidifies their status as a first-line treatment option for these disorders. Other medications listed, such as buspirone and desipramine, have different primary uses and do not specifically target both conditions as effectively as Luvox. While venlafaxine is an antidepressant that may also have some efficacy in treating OCD, it is not as commonly prescribed for this purpose as Luvox is.