Omega-3 fatty acid effects on children with autism

Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acid on Neurobehavioral Status of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized, Double- Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial

Phase 2 Interventional Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh · NCT06125782

This study is testing if giving Omega-3 fatty acids to children with autism can improve their behavior compared to a placebo.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment64 (estimated)
Ages2 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorBangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh Academic / other
Locations1 site (Dhaka)
Trial IDNCT06125782 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the impact of Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the neurobehavioral status of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Conducted as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, it will involve 64 participants aged 2 to 18 years who meet the DSM-5 criteria for ASD. Participants will be divided into two groups based on their Omega-3 levels and will receive either Omega-3 supplements or a placebo for 8 weeks. The study will assess changes in behavior using a validated checklist and measure Omega-3 levels in plasma.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 2 to 18 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients currently taking Omega-3 fatty acids or those with psychotic or mood disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new dietary intervention to improve neurobehavioral symptoms in children with autism.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored Omega-3 supplementation in various conditions, this specific approach in ASD is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Fulfills diagnosis of ASD by meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Written parental consent for participation. Age of children: 2-18 years. Sex: all.

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Exclusion Criteria:

Those taking Omega-3 fatty acid or fish oil at present. Known allergy to fish or fish oil. Diagnosed with a psychotic disorder (e.g. Schizophrenia) or mood disorder, including depression or bipolar disorder.

Where this trial is running

Dhaka

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.
Conditions Autism Spectrum Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.