Relationship of Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior Disorders to OCD

Opinion statementObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) have demonstrated considerable presence and impact among clinical populations. As consistent with any treatment approach, necessary intervention among these disorders begins with a comprehensive evaluation of client ’s symptoms, with particular attention placed on potential comorbidities. Common practice among clinicians identifies exposure and response prevention (ERP) as a first line treatment of OCD. However, among client’s demonstrating BFRBs, habit reversal therapy (HRT) or novel emotion-based treatmen ts (e.g., acceptance-enhanced behavior therapy [AEBT], dialectical behavioral therapy [DBT]) are used. Such therapies have demonstrated significant efficacy among their respective disorders. Notably, depending upon disorder severity, medications may also be suggested. Given frequent comorbidity betw een OCD and BFRBs, it is recommended that clinicians adequately modify interventions when presented with clients demonstrating such comorbid behaviors, perhaps combining effective facets of multiple approaches (see discussion below). From a pharmacological perspective, burgeoning research identifies two potential interventions applicable to both OCD and BFRBs (e.g., silymarin andn-acetyl-cysteine); however, given the novelty of this research, we recommend caution with use of such therapies. While current studies suggest potential efficacy, further research examining such pharm...

Source: Current Treatment Options in Psychiatry - October 7, 2016 Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research