Published in:
Open Access
01-10-2012 | Basic Neurosciences, Genetics and Immunology - Review article
Circadian rhythms in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors:
Klaus W. Lange, Katharina M. Lange, Joachim Hauser, Lara Tucha, Oliver Tucha
Published in:
Journal of Neural Transmission
|
Issue 10/2012
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Abstract
The etiopathology and neurobiology of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) are not fully understood. As for altered circadian rhythms associated with OCD, hormonal dysregulation and a delayed sleep phase have come into the focus of research. The novel antidepressant agomelatine is able to resynchronize circadian rhythms and the augmentative administration of this compound has been shown to be of benefit in some OCD patients who are refractory to common forms of pharmacotherapy. Adjunctive chronotherapy might also enhance the outcome in treatment-refractory OCD. The present review summarises the findings regarding circadian abnormalities in OCD.