New knowledge and innovative treatments
Our clinical research program generates new knowledge of, and treatments for, people living with autism and other developmental disorders. We use our unique access to dynamic clinical programs at MaineHealth Behavioral Health Autism and Developmental Disorders Portland to perform innovative studies in real-world settings.
Our research includes a focus on features of severe autism, sleep disorders and circadian rhythm, and psychiatric co-occurring conditions as well as utilizing validated behavior assessment measures to inform and improve care.
Actively enrolling studies
Comparative Effectiveness of Pharmacologic Management of ADHD in Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD with Autism Research on Efficacy: AWARE
This multi-site study is to determine the relative effectiveness of the most commonly prescribed FDA-approved medications for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Currently, it is unclear if the guidelines developed to treat ADHD in neurotypical youth are appropriate for those with ASD. This study may help to determine if new guidelines are needed.
The study is enrolling participants at 11 other clinics throughout the United States and Canada. It is funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). Patients may be eligible if they are between the ages of 6 and 17, have confirmed ASD and ADHD diagnoses, and are not currently taking a medication prescribed for ADHD.
For more information:
Please contact a member of the Autism Research Program at 207-661-5999 or ddp_research@mainehealth.org. You may also visit the AWARE study website.