Interactions of Serotonin and Dopamine in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

A review of various studies has indicated the efficacy of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) uptake inhibitors such as clomipramine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine and dopamine in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) patients. The role of dopamine (DA) in the pathophysiology of OCD is explored and evidence-based involvement of DA in the pathophysiology of patients who have chronic tic disorder or Tourette's syndrome is presented. Evidence shows that OCD patients with a comorbid chronic tic disorder may have a preferential response to the combination of a DA antagonist with fluvoxamine. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors play a role in the treatment of OCD; preliminary data from the addition of low-dose DA agonists to ongoing 5-HT uptake inhibitors have produced encouraging results.