How helpful can I expect these medications to be?

In the large studies that have been done, each medication helps about 75% to 85% of the patients at least a little. About 50% to 60% of patients in each trial had at least a moderate response to medication. We know that some patients have no response at all. If you do not respond to the first medication, then it is important to go on to the next. I have seen patients who have had no response to three of the above medications, then have a wonderful response to the next one.

There are also techniques of combining medications that may increase the response magnitude and rate (see next section). One patient wrote this to me: "Seeking an effective medication for OCD is a lot like dating to find a mate; don't be afraid to shop around and try different meds till you find one that works for you!"

The information is sourced from an article written by : Michael A. Jenike, M.D.Chairman.

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