Samar El-Sayegh | PubMed Health

PubMed2003

Obsessive-compulsive disorder: unearthing a hidden problem.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is the fourth most common psychiatric disorder. Yet patients often avoid seeking help because they are ashamed. Diagnosis is difficult, but familiarity with the nature of OCD and its current management helps primary care physicians identify patients with OCD and make informed judgments about treatment and referral. We review common symptoms, causes, drug therapy, behavioral therapy, and quality of life issues in patients with OCD.

Behavior Therapy↗

PubMed2002

Antiepileptic drugs in psychiatry-focus on randomized controlled trial.

It is now clear that the class of antiepileptic drugs (AED) constitute a heterogeneous grouping of medications with diverse medical applications. In particular, the spectrum of psychiatric uses of these medications has grown substantially. Valproate and carbamazepine are commonly used in the treatment of bipolar mania, lamotrigine in bipolar depression, and gabapentin in various anxiety disorders. Only divalproex sodium and carbamazepine have received regulatory approval in various countries around the world. This article will review the double-blind, placebo-controlled literature regarding the safety and spectrum of efficacy associated with the use of the above drugs in mood and anxiety disorders.

Anticonvulsants↗