Fish oil compound tested as autism symptom treatment

NCT ID NCT01260961

First seen Jun 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether DHA, a key omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, can improve symptoms of autism in children and adolescents aged 5 to 17. Participants receive either DHA or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Researchers also look at genes and urine markers related to DHA to understand how it might work.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil

What this could lead to

If DHA is effective, it could offer a simple dietary supplement to help reduce autism symptoms in some children.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage trial with a small number of participants, so results may not apply broadly. DHA may show no benefit over placebo.

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 autism spectrum disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Rutgers

    Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, United States