Can a common drug tame severe autism behaviors in kids?

NCT ID NCT00332241

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

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