Effects of Omega-3 on Neurodevelopmental Symptoms

Examining Symptom-Specific Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Children with ADHD / ASD Symptoms and Sleep Problems: a Network Approach.

NA · Swansea University · NCT06698588

This study is testing if giving omega-3 fish oil supplements can help improve sleep, mood, and behavior in children with sleep problems and symptoms of Autism or ADHD.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 12 Years
SexAll
SponsorSwansea University (other)
Locations1 site (Swansea)
Trial IDNCT06698588 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can enhance sleep, mood, and behavior in children experiencing sleep issues and symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). By employing a transdiagnostic approach, the research aims to identify specific symptoms that may benefit from omega-3 supplementation, thus including a broader range of children than previous studies. The trial will compare the effects of omega-3 fish oil supplements against a placebo to determine efficacy. The study addresses a significant gap in treatment options for children with these neurodevelopmental conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children with sleep problems and symptoms of ASD or ADHD, particularly those who may not have a formal diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients with major psychiatric conditions requiring hospitalization or severe learning difficulties may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safe and effective complementary treatment option for children with ASD and ADHD symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding omega-3 supplementation for similar conditions, indicating that while there is potential, the approach remains somewhat novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Autism Spectrum Quotient 10 score \>5 OR Conners 3 Handscored Short Parent Form T score \> 64 for either the inattention OR hyperactivity subscales OR Children Sleep Habits Questionnaire SF score \>30 Able to swallow capsules

Exclusion Criteria:

Any major psychiatric condition likely to require hospitalization (e.g., Psychotic Disorders; Eating Disorders), but NB: for representativeness of typical children with ADHD/ASD, diagnosed mood/anxiety/sleep or other neurodevelopmental disorders will not be exclusion criteria; Severe learning difficulties (e.g., Down syndrome) Any serious medical condition; (d) allergy to any ingredients of the intervention or related substances

Where this trial is running

Swansea

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sleep, Autism or Autistic Traits, ADHD or ADHD Traits, Randomised Controlled Trial

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.