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Targeting the Neurobiology of RRB in Autism Using N-acetylcysteine: Single-dose
Targeting the Neurobiology of Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors in Children With Autism Using N-acetylcysteine: a Single-dose Challenge Study
Who can join
Ages 3 to 12 · All sexes
Full eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * children between 3 years and 12 years 11 months at the time of consent * diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder confirmed with the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2), or Brief Observation of Symptoms of Autism (BOSA), or Childhood Autism Rating Scale- Second Edition (CARS-2). * at least moderate Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors severity defined by a Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale for children with autism spectrum disorder score ≥ 11, * physical development indicative of prepubescence as defined by the criteria for Tanner Stage 1, * medically stable, * passes MR safety screening (e.g., no metal in the body). Exclusion Criteria: * presence of known genetic abnormalities associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (e.g. Fragile X), * current or life-time diagnosis of severe psychiatric disorder (e.g., schizophrenia), * presence of significant medical problems that would interfere with participation, * the inability of at least one caregiver to speak/read English to a sufficient level to complete study requirements and materials, * individuals taking antioxidant agents and glutathione prodrugs, or * the inability/unwillingness to swallow an agent during the screening visit.
About the study
The goal of this study is to target the neurobiology of restricted and repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder using N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a well-tolerated nutritional supplement that has shown promise for reducing symptom severity in recent small-scale trials. The findings from this research will shed light on the mechanisms of action underlying the clinical benefits of NAC.
What is being tested
- N-Acetylcysteine (drug)
Sponsor: Stanford University · Participants: 24 · Started: Feb 12, 2021
Contact the study team
- Ramy Chebbo · Phone: (650) 723-7845
- John Hegarty, PhD · Phone: (650) 723-7845
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT04278898
Locations in the U.S.
| California | Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.