Understanding and treating anxiety in children with autism
Anxiety in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder
This study is looking at how anxiety affects kids with autism and is testing a medication called buspirone to see if it can help reduce their anxiety symptoms, all while trying to understand how their bodies respond to treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10924052 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates anxiety disorders in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on identifying biological markers that correlate with anxiety severity. The study aims to conduct a clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of buspirone, a medication, in reducing anxiety symptoms in these children. By utilizing advanced measures of the autonomic nervous system, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind treatment responses. This approach is designed to improve the quality of care for youth with ASD who struggle with anxiety.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who experience significant anxiety symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or those without anxiety symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for anxiety in children with autism, improving their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that innovative approaches to treating anxiety in youth with ASD can lead to meaningful advancements, although this specific trial represents a novel effort.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thom, Robyn P. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Thom, Robyn P.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.