Magnetic pulses to the brain may ease autism social struggles

NCT ID NCT05371912

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

Summary

This completed study tested whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could improve social awareness and reduce repetitive behaviors in 16 adults with autism spectrum disorder. rTMS uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate brain areas involved in social and cognitive function. The study measured changes using parent-reported questionnaires and verbal fluency tests, but because it was small and had no comparison group, the results are preliminary.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-drug option to ease social and behavioral challenges in autism.

What could go wrong

This was a very small, early study with only 16 participants and no control group. Results may not apply to everyone with autism, and benefits may be modest or absent.

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 spectrum disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mitra Assadi

    Newark, Delaware, 19713, United States