Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

Which two antidepressant medications are commonly used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder?

1. Paxil, Lexapro

2. Luvox, Zoloft

3. Prozac, Wellbutrin

4. Celexa, Effexor

The correct answer is: Luvox, Zoloft

The correct choice highlights Luvox (fluvoxamine) and Zoloft (sertraline), both of which are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) known for their efficacy in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). SSRIs are often the first-line treatment for OCD due to their ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is believed to be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms associated with this condition. Luvox specifically has strong evidence supporting its use for OCD, while Zoloft has also been shown to be effective for both OCD and other anxiety disorders. In contrast to the other options, medications such as Paxil (another SSRI) and Lexapro may also provide relief but are not as frequently specified for OCD treatment in the same way as Luvox and Zoloft. The combination of Luvox and Zoloft in this choice reflects the preferred options supported by clinical guidelines and studies focused specifically on the treatment of OCD. Other medications listed, like Prozac, Wellbutrin, Celexa, and Effexor, while potentially useful for different anxiety disorders or forms of depression, do not have the same level of targeted efficacy for OCD.