Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

Which of the following medications is least likely to be effective for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

1. Prozac

2. Clomipramine

3. Sertraline

4. Wellbutrin

The correct answer is: Wellbutrin

When considering the efficacy of medications in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), it is essential to understand the action of these drugs on serotonin levels in the brain. Prozac, Clomipramine, and Sertraline are all known to have a positive effect on OCD symptoms. They belong to two main categories of medications: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and a tricyclic antidepressant, both of which have shown effectiveness in reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Prozac and Sertraline are SSRIs that work by increasing serotonin levels, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety, both of which are significant components of OCD. Clomipramine, while a tricyclic antidepressant, is particularly notable for its strong serotonin reuptake inhibition and has been extensively studied and used for OCD treatment. In contrast, Wellbutrin, which primarily affects dopamine and norepinephrine, does not demonstrate significant efficacy for OCD. Its mechanism of action does not target the serotonin system in a way that alleviates the core symptoms of OCD, making it less suitable for this specific condition. Therefore, when evaluating the effectiveness of these medications specifically for OCD treatment, Wellbutrin is the least