The focus of our lab is researching novel uses for existing therapies. Our studies take treatments that are known to work for certain disorders and tests them for other medical conditions that are difficult to manage. For example, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an effective treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We are investigating whether this same treatment is helpful in alcohol use disorder, given that OCD and problematic drinking are similar when it comes to compulsive behavior. A description of this study can be found here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03809286

We are also investigating the effects of TMS on chronic pain in patients currently in methadone-maintenance programs for opioid use disorder. A description of this study can be found here:
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02687360

Additional studies include the PINC study (Paclitaxel Induced Neuropathy and Cannabis). This is a clinical trial testing cannabinoids for peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy (paclitaxel or docetaxel). This condition results from chemotherapy causing injury to the peripheral nerves, usually the hands and feet. This study enrolls volunteers who have experienced neuropathy due to breast cancer treatment.  A description of this clinical trial can be found here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03782402

Lastly, our lab is conducting a study investigating the effect of ketamine for tinnitus, which is ‘ringing in the ears’ in the absence of ambient sound. Tinnitus often occurs with hearing loss, and it is fairly common. Unfortunately, it is difficult to treat, and there are few options. Our study uses Magnetic Resonance Imaging to assess the effect of ketamine, which is known to treat depression, for tinnitus. As description of this study can be found here: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03336398