NCT07214545 · University of California, San Francisco
External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation for Children With ASD + ADHD to Reduce Elevated Symptoms
(eTNS CARES)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) works to treat ADHD symptoms in children on the autism spectrum (ASD). It will also learn about the effectiveness and tolerability of the eTNS device.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) works to treat ADHD symptoms in children on the autism spectrum (ASD). It will also learn about the efficacy and tolerability of the eTNS device.
Interventions
DEVICE
Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation
This intervention is expected to have an effect following a treatment period of 6 weeks.
DEVICE
Sham Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation
This intervention is NOT expected to have an effect following a treatment period of 6 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
Change in ADHD Symptoms
Time frame: Baseline to end of treatment at 6 weeks
Examine the efficacy of external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (eTNS) in reducing ADHD symptoms as measured by the Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale-5 (ADHD-RS-5; range 0-54), where higher scores indicate worse symptoms.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Confirmed clinician diagnosis of ASD according to DSM-5 criteria, corroborated by prior testing (or obtained in study screening) with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) with or without the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
- IQ \> 70 as corroborated by prior testing (or obtained in study screening) with the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence Scale (WASI)
- Confirmed diagnosis of ADHD according to DSM-5 criteria with minimum ADHD-RS score of \> 24
- Stable on current medications for a minimum of 4 weeks before baseline
- Ability to complete protocol testing
- Both the child participant and their primary caregiver must be fluent in English (speaking, reading, and understanding), as the questionnaires and assessment tools used in this study have been validated only in English.
Exclusion criteria
- Current major depression, history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, elevated risk of self-harm
- History of moderate to severe coarse brain injury
- Active medical illness expected to interfere with study assessments
- Presence of implanted stimulator (e.g., vagal nerve stimulator)
- Active dermatologic condition likely to interfere with eTNS electrode wearability
- Sleep disorder likely to interfere with nightly eTNS in the opinion of the study physician
- Inability to communicate discomfort or pain
- Current and anticipated continued use of antipsychotic or stimulant medication
Where
- San Francisco, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations