Testing drug monitoring of risperidone in children with autism

Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Antipsychotics in Children 2: Studying TDM in an RCT

Phase 4 Interventional Erasmus Medical Center · NCT05146245

This study is testing how to safely monitor and adjust the medication risperidone for children with autism to help manage their behavior while minimizing side effects.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorErasmus Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rotterdam)
Trial IDNCT05146245 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of risperidone in children aged 6 to 18 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and behavioral problems. It focuses on the use of therapeutic drug monitoring to manage the medication's dosage effectively, potentially reducing metabolic side effects while maintaining its clinical effectiveness. The study will involve monitoring plasma levels of risperidone to tailor treatment for individual patients. Participants will be recruited from the Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 6 to 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and comorbid behavioral issues who are starting treatment with risperidone.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, certain congenital syndromes, or those who have recently been treated with antipsychotic medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for children with autism spectrum disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using therapeutic drug monitoring for antipsychotics, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 6 to 18 years
* Documented clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder according to DSM IV or DSM V and comorbid behavioural problems
* To start treatment with risperidone

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diabetes type I or II
* Congenital or acquired syndrome associated with changes in appetite, body weight or lipid profile (e.g. Prader Willi)
* Treatment with antipsychotic medication within the last 6 months
* Known Long QT syndrome (LQTS)
* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Rotterdam

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 DisorderRisperidoneTherapeutic Drug Monitoring
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.