The University of Cincinnati has been assigned a patent to use a painkiller as a new way to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder.

        The disorder affects about 3.3 million Americans, with symptoms including depression, irrational fears and compulsive checking, arranging and hoarding. Nearly half the people with the disorder do not get effective control from traditional psychiatric medications.

        A former UC researcher, Dr. Nathan Shapira, now at the University of Florida, observed that a psychiatric patient with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette syndrome appeared to benefit from the painkiller tramadol, also known by the brand name Ultram. A small clinical trial, designed by UC and Florida researchers, showed that Ultram provided 25 percent to 65 percent relief from patients' symptoms.

        Researchers also think the painkiller will have beneficial effects on related health problems, including eating disorders and Tourette syndrome.

        While approved for use as a painkiller, further study is needed to obtain U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to use Ultram as a treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder. Because Ultram is an opiate, patients face a risk of addiction. However, Dr. Shapira says the addiction risk is low.

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