Could a steroid ease autism symptoms? small trial aims to find out

NCT ID NCT06934915

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Christopher John McDougle, M.D. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether the steroid prednisone can improve core autism symptoms in 32 adult males with an immune-mediated subtype of autism. Participants take prednisone or a placebo daily for 16 weeks, with regular check-ins and questionnaires. The goal is to see if the drug is safe and worth testing in larger studies.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: prednisone
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a treatment for core autism symptoms in a specific immune-related subtype.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small trial with only 32 participants. Prednisone has known side effects, and the results may not apply to all people with autism.

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 autoimmune disease Inflammation Neuroinflammatory Diseases

As listed by the trial registrant

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

AUTISM AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS AUTISTIC DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

MGH Lurie Center for Autism
RECRUITING

Lexington, Massachusetts, 02421, United States

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