Best Medicines for OCD in India
Most people with OCD need a higher SSRI dose than is used for depression. CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a first-line treatment, used alone or together with medicine.
Last updated: October 2026
Fluoxetine
Use: Often needs a higher dose for OCD than for depression. Your doctor will raise the dose slowly, to no more than 80 mg a day. It can take up to 12 weeks to work.
Side effects: Nausea, upset stomach, sleep problems, headache, feeling anxious at first, sexual problems. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts, especially in young people, so get help at once if this happens. Do not stop it suddenly.
Side effects: Nausea, upset stomach, sleep problems, headache, feeling anxious at first, sexual problems. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts, especially in young people, so get help at once if this happens. Do not stop it suddenly. Often needs a higher dose for OCD than for depression. Your doctor will raise the dose slowly, to no more than 80 mg a day. It can take up to 12 weeks to work.
Fluvoxamine
Use: Specifically approved for OCD.
Side effects: Nausea, drowsiness, sleep problems, weakness, sexual problems. Interacts with many medicines, so tell your doctor everything you take. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts in young people, so get help at once if this happens.
Side effects: Nausea, drowsiness, sleep problems, weakness, sexual problems. Interacts with many medicines, so tell your doctor everything you take. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts in young people, so get help at once if this happens. Specifically approved for OCD.
Clomipramine
Use: Tricyclic. Works about as well as SSRIs for OCD but has more side effects, so it is usually tried only after SSRIs have not helped.
Side effects: Sedation, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, sweating, sexual problems. Can cause seizures. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts in young people, so get help at once if this happens.
Side effects: Sedation, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, sweating, sexual problems. Can cause seizures. Rarely, it can cause suicidal thoughts in young people, so get help at once if this happens. Tricyclic. Works about as well as SSRIs for OCD but has more side effects, so it is usually tried only after SSRIs have not helped.
When to See a Doctor
If OCD interferes with daily life or causes significant distress.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The medicines, Indian brands and advice on this page were checked against these treatment guides and product listings.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. The medicines listed may require a prescription. Dosage, suitability, and safety depend on individual health conditions. Always consult a licensed doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.