Take a daily probiotic supplement to help with autism and digestive problems

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, a type of probiotic (beneficial bacteria), can help children with autism spectrum disorder who also have digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea. The research is based on the idea that an imbalance in gut bacteria may play a role in autism, and restoring that balance with the medication might improve both digestive and behavioral symptoms. Half of the children will receive the probiotic, and half will receive a placebo (inactive pill) to see if there's a real difference.

Children with autism often have digestive problems that make their symptoms worse and affect their families' quality of life. Recent research suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria may be connected to autism, so this treatment aims to restore healthy bacteria and potentially improve both digestive and autism-related symptoms.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 4 and 12 years old
you have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder
you have digestive problems (such as constipation, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome) that have lasted at least 3 months
your digestive symptoms are moderate enough to score 7 or higher on a symptom scale

You likely don't qualify if…

you have other serious chronic health conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, immune disorders, or genetic disorders)
you have taken antibiotics or other probiotics in the 6 months before enrolling
you have been in another clinical trial in the past 12 months
your digestive symptoms have lasted less than 3 months
you have an uncertain diagnosis of autism or digestive problems

What participation looks like

If you join this study, your child will take either the probiotic supplement or a placebo pill daily for a set period. You'll have visits with the research team to monitor how your child is doing, answer questions about digestive and behavioral symptoms, and track any changes. The study is designed to be straightforward and fits into a family's normal routine while researchers collect information to see whether the medication helps.

Can a probiotic supplement help children with autism and digestive issues?

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)