Effects of brain stimulation on adolescents with autism
Cumulative and Booster Effects of Multisession Prefrontal tDCS on Cognitive and Social Impairments in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help reduce anxiety, aggression, impulsivity, and inattention in teenagers with autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 12 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06272669 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of multisession transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It aims to assess both cumulative and booster effects of this non-invasive brain stimulation technique to alleviate core symptoms such as anxiety, aggression, impulsivity, and inattention. Participants will receive either active or sham tDCS, and the study will evaluate the potential for lasting cognitive benefits and therapeutic effects. The research seeks to identify factors that may enhance treatment outcomes and address the risk of symptom relapse.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder as confirmed by a clinical psychologist.
Not a fit: Patients without a confirmed diagnosis of autism or those with other neurological or psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new, effective treatment option for managing symptoms of autism in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings from other studies using tDCS in autism have shown promise, but this specific approach is still being explored.
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). 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.
Where this trial is running
Hung Hom, Kowloon
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- 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.