Volunteers needed for clinical trial on autism-related disorders

A Kingston-based research study into a treatment for autism-related social disorders needs volunteers to move forward.

The Department of Psychiatry at Queen’s University is running a clinical trial for Autism under the leadership of Dr. Lucia Capano (KHSC-Hotel Dieu site) in conjunction with the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Disorders (POND) Network… that is, unless they’re unable to get another 11 families to volunteer for the study.

“We’re doing a clinical study of Arbaclofen, which is hypothesized to help social symptoms in kids with autism,” Queen’s University Associate Researcher Dr. Elizabeth Kelley said. “It should make them more socially interested and better able to socially engage with others.”

The group is looking for children between the ages of 5-17 with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Dr. Kelley adds the setbacks in recruitment stems from concerns over the pandemic, as well as the fact that bloodwork is an essential part of the study. Enrollment is due by August 2021.

The research team is located at the Ongwanada Resource Centre. For more information, contact Jennifer Lalonde at 613-548-4417 ext. 1111.