Substance/Medication-Induced Obsessive-Compulsive And Related Disorder

The symptoms of substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder can vary depending on the specific substances or medications involved, as well as individual susceptibility. Symptoms of this disorder may include but are not limited to the following: 

• A notable connection between the development of substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder and substance use
• Intrusive and recurrent thoughts, which are often disturbing or irrational
• Preoccupation with specific themes, such as contamination, harm, or morality
• Attempts to suppress or neutralize these thoughts, leading to increased distress
• Repetitive and ritualistic actions performed to alleviate anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts
• Cleaning and washing rituals to reduce contamination fears
• Checking and reassurance-seeking behaviors to ensure safety or prevent harm
• Engaging in mental rituals or compulsive thoughts to counteract obsessive fears
• Repeating phrases, prayers, or numbers in the mind to achieve a sense of security
• Anxiety and distress, particularly when unable to perform compulsive rituals
• Impairment in daily functioning due to the time-consuming nature of rituals
• Avoidance of circumstances that intensify obsessive thoughts

Distinguishing between substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder and primary OCD, along with other mental health conditions, is often vital in determining an appropriate and effective treatment method. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing substance use disorders may be more susceptible to the onset of OCD symptoms induced by substances.

A combination of various causes and risk factors influences the development of substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder. Common causes and risk factors include the following. 

Substance use and medication

The primary cause of this disorder lies in the consumption of certain substances or medications that can affect the brain's neurochemistry. Drugs that can induce or exacerbate obsessive-compulsive symptoms include alcohol, stimulants, hallucinogens, antipsychotics, and certain prescription medications.

Neurobiological vulnerability

Some individuals may have an inherent neurobiological susceptibility to developing obsessive-compulsive symptoms when exposed to substances or medications. This vulnerability may be due to genetic factors or pre-existing alterations in brain function related to anxiety and compulsivity.

Co-occurrence with a substance use disorder

Having a history of a substance use disorder may increase the risk of developing substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder. Individuals with existing substance use challenges may be more prone to experiencing obsessive-compulsive symptoms caused by substances.

Triggers related to trauma

In cases where an individual has experienced trauma, specific triggers may play a significant role in the onset or exacerbation of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. These triggers can be related to past traumatic events and may lead to heightened anxiety and the desire to engage in compulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism.¹ However, these triggers may not be related to substance or medication-induced conditions unless they incite the urge to use substances, which leads to the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. 

The relationship between substance use, medications, trauma, and the emergence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms is complex and multifaceted. OCD symptoms may occur as the result of a wide variety of events or factors.

Often, the primary goal of treating substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder is to reduce or eliminate obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, improve daily functioning, and promote overall well-being. 

Medication

In cases where a substance or medication is implicated in causing or contributing to symptoms, a healthcare professional may modify or change an individual’s medication regimen accordingly. 

In addition, medications are sometimes prescribed to manage symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as: 

• Antidepressants: Antidepressants may be prescribed to manage OCD symptoms. 
• Antipsychotic medications: In some cases, antipsychotic medications may be prescribed to target specific symptoms or comorbid conditions associated with the disorder.

Other treatment options

Other treatment options for substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder include the following: 

• Dual-diagnosis treatment: For individuals with a co-occurring substance use disorder and OCD symptoms, an integrated treatment that addresses both conditions may aid in a successful recovery.
• Inpatient or intensive outpatient programs: Severe cases or those requiring more intensive interventions may benefit from specialized treatment programs.
• Support groups: Joining support groups can offer valuable peer support and a sense of community for individuals coping with substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Self-care

Mental health professionals often recommend self-care to work through challenging symptoms at home in combination with other treatments. Below are a few self-care techniques to try: 

• Healthy lifestyle habits: Regularly exercising, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can positively impact mood and overall mental health.
• Stress management: Learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises may alleviate anxiety and obsessive thoughts.
• Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers related to past trauma may prevent the worsening of obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
• Education and awareness: Educating oneself about the disorder and its treatment may empower individuals to participate in their recovery journey actively.

Effectively treating substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder often involves consistent interaction with medical and mental health experts. By pinpointing the underlying causes of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, individuals can make progress in alleviating symptoms.

Understanding, addressing, and treating substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive and related disorder often requires a comprehensive therapeutic approach involving the support of mental health professionals. Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp connect individuals with therapists or counselors who meet their needs. Through an online platform, clients can meet with a therapist from home via phone, video, or live chat. 

Additional resources for learning more about this condition and its treatments include the following organizations: 

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)
• The JED Foundation
• American Addiction Centers (AAC)

Please see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

In one study that examined amphetamine-induced obsessive-compulsive disorder (AI-OCD), researchers gathered information from over 500 people who were dependent on amphetamines and interviewed them regarding their background and mental health. The results showed that about 3% had OCD before they started using amphetamines. Almost 90% did not have OCD, and around 7% developed AI-OCD due to their amphetamine use. The study found that AI-OCD was more prevalent than regular OCD in the general populations of Western countries and Iran.

Based on this study, researchers found they are unable to predict who would develop AI-OCD based on factors like age, gender, or the severity of their amphetamine use. This result suggests that it may be unclear why some people who misuse amphetamines develop AI-OCD while others don't. The study highlighted that about 7% of amphetamine users might develop AI-OCD, and further research is needed to understand the reasons behind this phenomenon.

Below are several statistics on substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive disorder:

• Approximately one in 100 people experience substance/medication-induced obsessive-compulsive disorder based on substance or medication use. 
• The prevalence of co-occurring OCD and substance use disorder in adults is estimated to be around 6% to 12%, indicating a significant comorbidity between the two conditions. 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the leading therapeutic approach for OCD and related disorders, has shown success rates of up to 70% to 80% in reducing obsessive-compulsive symptoms and improving overall functioning.
• Approximately 50% of individuals affected by OCD and related disorders seek treatment and experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.