Picrotoxin is primarily used in research settings as a non-competitive antagonist of GABA-A receptors. It is valuable in neuroscience studies to investigate the role of GABAergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system. By blocking GABA-A receptors, it induces convulsions and excitatory effects, making it a useful tool for studying seizure mechanisms and testing anticonvulsant drugs. Additionally, it has been employed in physiological experiments to understand synaptic inhibition and neural circuitry. Its application is limited to laboratory use due to its high toxicity and potential to cause severe neurological effects.