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Nail Biting | Stop Nail Biting
TREATMENTS TO STOP NAIL BITING It might be unexpected news to many, but there are actually a variety of medications on the market that aim to stop nail biting. These medications treat the anxiety that many believe is behind habits such as nail biting, and includine a variety of antidepressant type drugs. These drugs also may be beneficial in the treatment of OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder as well Trichotillomania (hair plucking). The medications in this group include citalopram, nefazodone, fluoxetine, paroxetine and other SSRI class medications. The aforementioned drugs are sometimes used in conjuction with other medications in order to increase the chance of their success. Drugs that are considered anti psychoicts such as ziprasidone, risperidone and olazapine are prescribed. In an effort to assist patient's with stopping nail biting, doctors will often use vitamin B inositol which works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain which is believed to help lessen both anxiety and the compulsive behaviors that often come with it. BEHAVIORAL THERAPY In a full effort to stop nail biting many people will also engange in behavioral therapy. This is sometimes done alone or in addition to other treatments, including medications. Behavioral therpay often begins with habit reversal training, which involves replacing the nail biting habit with a more positive habit. Another behavior approach is called stimiulus control therapy which aims to identify and then remove the stimulus which prompts the nail biting. OTHER TREATMENT A variety of aversion techniques also aim to help stop nail biting. Some of these include covering the nails with polishes that contain bitter tasting ingredients in order to discourage nail biting. Also, there is a techqnue of wearing a rubber band on the wrist to remind of the habit. Many people will ask their family and others to mention when they notice the nail biting happening. These techniques help to pinpoint when nail biting starts, and may help to provvide insight to the reason behind it.
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