We have yet to find the 'smoking gun' that pinpoints the physical processes underlying hair pulling. Thats not to say there is no genetic component, but there is no pulling gene. Dr. Novak cited a patient who got 2 years pull-free just from taking a medication, but this kind of result is quite rare. Medications usually dont have this dramatic an effect, and effects that do occur often fade. Medications can also increase awareness, and decrease urges or make them easier to resist.
Medications are more effective when combined with behavior therapy.
Dr. Mansueto discussed behavior therapy, and augmenting it with cognitive techniques. Its a broad approach and can be quite effective. . Any treatment for hair pulling is as good as any other. Only medications and behavior therapy have been tested in controlled scientific studies and found to be effective in treating trich. The jury is out on the rest, but augmenting your treatment with other things may help.