Lexapro or Prozac

[arc827mh]

I have been suffering from OCD for better part of my adult life. I am 42 now, married and is professionally quite successful. But OCD keeps me from enjoying life. My OCD is mostly about obsessive and meaningless thoughts which makes me anxious and increases my blood pressure. Many a times OCD increases when I am in a dilema: like when making a decision between two alternatives. Even after I make the right decision, nagging doubt continues for months and creates stress and BP rises. I continued to shy away from seeking medical help due to social stigma. Recently, after learning about new medications for OCD, I decided to seek medical help. My PCP prescribed me Lexapro. I have used it only for a few days and so far experienced
minimal side effects. My question is: Is Lexapro effective for OCD? I know FDA approved it only for depression. Or should I ask for Prozac, which has FDA approval for OCD? Appreciate your response.
Thanks.

[StupidMe]

All SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, and Anafranil are indicated for OCD. Lexapro is a relatively new SSRI, so it has not obtained enough studies for FDA approval for OCD. FDA is a very cautious body. As it is an SSRI, further studies and time will provide plenty of evidence for FDA approval as an anti-obsessive agent.
To avoid stigma, you can obtain online Cognitive-behavioral therapy for your OCD.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

It looks like all the medications in this class of ssri's will be effective with ocd and anxiety and depression.  It would make sense to give this a trial since you are not having major side effects...wait for about six weeks before you consider a change. Also, do go into psychotherapy, it can help if you are with the right doctor.