Fish oil compound tested as autism symptom treatment

NCT ID NCT01260961

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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 autism spectrum disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

AUTISM

Contacts and locations

Locations

Rutgers

Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, United States

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