Effects of rTMS on cognitive functions and behavior in individuals with autism
Effects of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) on Cognitive Functions and Behavior in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD)
This study tests if a new brain treatment called rTMS can help improve thinking skills and behavior in children with autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 5 Years to 11 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | King Saud University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Riyadh) |
| Trial ID | NCT06524310 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on cognitive functions and behavior in children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The intervention involves low-frequency rTMS applied to enhance social cognition and executive function, which are often impaired in individuals with ASD. Participants will be children aged 5 to 11 years who have been diagnosed with ASD using established criteria. The study aims to assess changes in cognitive performance and behavior following the rTMS treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 5 to 11 years with a diagnosis of ASD and an IQ greater than 70.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy or significant head injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could improve cognitive functions and social behaviors in children with autism, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using rTMS for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential efficacy in this novel application for ASD.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Target population: * Autistic individuals * previously Diagnosed with ASD using the American Psychiatric Association's DSM-V criteria * previously Diagnosed using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Inclusion Criteria: * Male and female ASD individuals * age between 5 and 11 years old * diagnosed with ASD on prior clinical assessment using the American Psychiatric Association's DSM-V criteria and corroborated by assessment using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). * Normal hearing ability based on past hearing screens. * Participation will be limited to higher functioning (intelligence quotient \[IQ\] \>70) to maximize successful completion of tested paradigms, maintain alertness/attention, furthermore, the ability to follow instructions. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals that are known to have epilepsy ( including Hx. of febrile convulsion) or have a family history of epilepsy. * Any individual with a previous Hx. Of head injuries * Any individual has been diagnosed with psychiatric illness, including ADHD, depression, psychosis, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, or OCD. * Individuals using one or a combination of Psychotropic Medications known for their significant seizure threshold lowering potential, for example, and not as a limitation: Bupropion, Citalopram, Duloxetine, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Mirtazapine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Venlafaxine, Tricyclics, Olanzapine, Quetiapine, Aripiprazole, Ziprasidone, and Risperidone. * The presence of metallic objects, e.g., cranium clips or implanted biomedical devices.
Where this trial is running
Riyadh
- Department of Physiology, Autism Research and Treatment Center (ARTC), King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC)/Collage of Medicine, King Saud University — Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: HAYFA A ALGHABBAN, MD,MSc — Department of physiology, collage of Medicine, King Saud University
- Study coordinator: HAYFA ALGHABBAN, MD,MSc
- Email: ghabbana@yahoo.com
- Phone: 00966557409749
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.