Body Dysmorphic Disorder symptoms improve, relapse preventable with sustained medication

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-04/l-bdd040816.php

Public Release: 8-Apr-2016
Body Dysmorphic Disorder symptoms improve, relapse preventable with sustained medication
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital collaborate on groundbreaking study of this chronic disease affecting millions
Lifespan

People with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) fare better and are less likely to relapse when treated with medication on a long-term basis, according to researchers at Rhode Island Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital.

BDD is an often-chronic mental illness in which people focus intensively on perceived physical flaws, which to others appear minor or even nonexistent. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is tailored to BDD and certain types of antidepressant medication called serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) often alleviate symptoms. Until this study, no research existed to verify that medication was effective in preventing a relapse of symptoms after medication is suspended. In addition, previous studies regarding the efficacy of medications were short-term.

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