O045 Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation improves sleep in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract Introduction There are no controlled studies examining the impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (α-rTMS) on sleep difficulties in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method Twenty children (6-12yrs old; 16 males) with ASD (level 2) and sleep difficulties were recruited and randomised into α-rTMS and waitlist control groups (1:1). The treatment group received ten sessions of α-rTMS. Sleep outcomes were assessed at baseline and immediately post-α-rTMS on the Children Sleep Habit Questionnaire (CSHQ). Result The total CSHQ score was significantly improved in the treatment group as compared to the waitlist control group (-12.6; 95% CI –22.3, –2.3; p= 0.015; d= -1.25). Bedtime resistance (-0.61; 95% CI –1.04, –0.19; p= 0.008; d= -1.418), sleep onset delay (-1.0; 95% CI –1.7, -0.3; p= 0.006; d=-1.4), and sleep duration (-0.6; 95% CI –0.19 to –0.9, p= 0.007, d= -1.5), all improved. The treatment group reported no adverse events. Conclusion Preliminary evidence suggests that α-rTMS is well-tolerated and improves sleep difficulties in children with ASD.