Balovaptan, a novel drug that binds to and blocks vasopressin 1A (V1a) receptors, does not improve social communication in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), new research shows.

Efficacy analysis from a phase 2 trial included more than 160 participants, making it the largest of its kind to date, investigators note.

Although the results were negative, the study does provide useful information to inform future clinical trials, study investigator Eric Hollander, MD, director of the Autism and Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Program and professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York,

For example, it provides clues about possible changes to study design, subject entry criteria, and outcome measures, Hollander noted.

From Medscape Medical News.