Effects of brain stimulation on adolescents with autism
Cumulative and Booster Effects of Multisession Prefrontal Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Cognitive and Social Impairments in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
NA · The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT05492032
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation combined with cognitive training can help improve anxiety, aggression, and social communication in adolescents with autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 12 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon) |
| Trial ID | NCT05492032 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the cumulative and booster effects of multisession prefrontal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The approach involves applying active and sham tDCS alongside cognitive training to assess its impact on core symptoms such as anxiety, aggression, and social communication difficulties. Participants will be carefully selected based on established diagnostic criteria and monitored for any changes in their condition throughout the treatment period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those who may also exhibit symptoms of ADHD.
Not a fit: Patients without a confirmed diagnosis of autism or those with other neurological disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve social communication and reduce behavioral issues in adolescents with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using tDCS for treating symptoms of autism, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals who are confirmed by a clinical psychologist based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Ed (DSM-V) criteria of Autism spectrum disorder and structured interview with their parents or primary caregivers on their developmental history using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). * Individuals with ASD who are comorbid with ADHD symptoms will be included if they were willing to abstain from the use of these medications at least 96 hours before the commencement, until the completion, of the treatment. * In view of the fact that neuroadaptation to antipsychotics typically occurs within six months, potential participants who are prescribed antipsychotic medications will only be included if the dosage of the medication remained unchanged for six months or more before the experimental period. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals without a confirmed diagnosis from the clinical psychologist, with a history of other neurological and psychiatric disorders and head trauma, or on psychiatric medication will be excluded from the study. * In view of the possibility of seizure induction by tDCS, potential ASD participants comorbid with epilepsy will be excluded. * Potential participants comorbid with mood or anxiety disorders will also be excluded.
Where this trial is running
Hung Hom, Kowloon
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yvonne Han, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Yvonne Han, PhD
- Email: yvonne.han@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 2766 7578
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Electroencephalography, Booster Effects, Autism, ASD, tDCS, Treatment outcome