Can a common drug tame severe autism behaviors in kids?

NCT ID NCT00332241

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether aripiprazole (Abilify) can reduce serious behavioral problems in children and teens aged 6 to 17 with autistic disorder. 98 participants received either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks. Researchers measured changes in irritability and overall improvement using standard behavior checklists.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: aripiprazole (Abilify)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could provide a medication option to reduce severe irritability and behavioral issues in children and teens with autism.
What could go wrong: This is an 8-week study with only 98 participants, so long-term effects and broader benefits are unknown. Side effects from aripiprazole are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism Problem Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AUTISTIC DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Center For Psychiatry And Behavioral Medicine

Las Vegas, Nevada, 89128, United States
Child Neurology Associates, Pc

Atlanta, Georgia, 30342, United States
Marsella, Gregory

Boca Raton, Florida, 33432, United States
Neurobehavioral Medicine Group

Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, 48302, United States
Red Oak Psychiatry Associates, Pa

Houston, Texas, 77090, United States
Suny - Stony Brook School Of Medicine

Stony Brook, New York, 11794, United States
Univ Of Nc

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, United States
University Of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, United States
Ut Medical Group

Memphis, Tennessee, 38105, United States

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