Martinez Lab

Location and Contact Information
Principal Investigator
The focus of our lab is researching novel uses for existing therapies. This increases our ability to have these treatments available to patients more quickly. Our current studies include:
Cannabinoids for Neuropathy
The PINC study (Paclitaxel Induced Neuropathy and Cannabis) is a clinical trial investigating cannabinoids for peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy (paclitaxel or docetaxel). 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
Please contact us at (646) 774-7774 or email Vianne.Garces@nyspi.columbia.edu
Ketamine for Tinnitus
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
Please contact us at (646) 774-7654 or email Alex.Grassetti@nyspi.columbia.edu
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Additional studies are using 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
Please contact us at (646) 774-7654 or email Alex.Grassetti@nyspi.columbia.edu