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Should you Take Paxil or Zoloft for OCD?

First of all, both Paxil and Zoloft are SSRI drugs, serotonin uptake inhibitor drugs. Both works in much the same way, the most noticeable difference is perhaps the effectiveness. Although the less common side effects which include drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, tremors, sexual disfunction and nervousness were virtually the same for both drugs.

Whether you suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder, or any of the other anxiety disorders, a prescription drug may be something you are considering.  But with so many drugs to choose from, how do you really know what you are getting is what is best for you and your symptoms?  It is a tricky subject, and for most people very overwhelming.  This article will aim to equip you with knowledge on two of the most commonly prescribed medications for anxiety disorders such as OCD.  It will also explore what you may be able to accomplish without the use of either drug.

Both Paxil and Zoloft are SSRI drugs, serotonin uptake inhibitor drugs.  Although they work in much the same way, the most noticeable difference is perhaps the effectiveness.  The less common side effects which include drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, tremors, sexual disfunction and nervousness are virtually the same for both drugs.  However, studies have shown that Zoloft is less habit forming than Paxil and does not have the weight gain effect that Paxil does.  Zoloft is the most commonly prescribed drug for anxiety disorders and has been used longer than any other drug in the past decade.  Zoloft has shown to be effective in treating such disorders as post traumatic stress syndrome, social anxiety disorder, OCD, and other panic disorders.

The truth of the matter is that one drug is really not better than another when it comes to this class of drugs.  They both will treat the root cause; they just come with side effects attached.  If you are looking for a natural means of treating your obsessive compulsive disorder, you may be surprised to know that you do have options.  Many natural vitamins and minerals act in the same way as Zoloft or Paxil, however they will not raise havoc on your body at a later date.  Below are some of the most commonly used natural remedies for anxiety disorders.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Diagnosis Being a perfectionist can make you exhibit some of the same behaviors as someone with OCD, however when you are strictly a perfectionist, you can control your behavior. Wanting everything the best it can be is one thing, maximizing your potential is a great trait of someone who is defined as a perfectionist. However, people that suffer from OCD tendencies take perfectionism to a whole new level. Breaking down because something has been moved or touched by an outsider, numbering your socks or labeling them left and right is way over the top. These are not uncommon behaviors for people with OCD; it is however, not something a perfectionist would relate to. Childhood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

5-HTP (hydroxytrytophan)

5-HTP is an amino acid that can have a significant effect on both anxiety and depression. 5-HTP works by increasing the cellular output of serotonin, essentially the same thing that SSRI's accomplish.  In fact, studies have shown that patients that take 5-HTP have the same overall improvement of those that strictly take an SSRI drug.  It was also better tolerated by the same group of patients.

Phosphatidyl choline

Phosphatidyl choline is another beneficial supplement for the treatment of anxiety disorders.  Phosphatidyl choline increases the central neurologic activity of the brain, thus enhancing mood.  Phosphatidyl choline is a constituent of lecithin, which is needed to adequately form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

L-Glutamine

L-Glutamine is an amino acid has been used for years to stabilize depression.  It works by altering neurotransmitters in the brain. 

Herbs & Vitamins

Herbs such as ginko biloba and valerian root are used to treat cerebral insufficiency and disorders of the nervous system.  Valerian is known for its calming properties for stress related conditions.  Herbs, minerals, enzymes, herbal extracts and supplementation can all have as much of an effect as any drug on the market if you are willing to give it the time.

Obsessive Compulsive Behavior