NCS-382, sodium salt, is primarily utilized in research settings as a potent and selective antagonist for the gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) receptor. Its application is significant in neuroscience studies, where it helps to elucidate the role of GHB in the central nervous system. By blocking GHB receptors, it aids in understanding the mechanisms underlying GHB's effects on neurotransmission, sedation, and potential therapeutic uses. Additionally, it is employed in experimental models to investigate conditions such as sleep disorders, addiction, and neurological diseases where GHB signaling is implicated. This compound serves as a valuable tool for dissecting the complex pathways and physiological roles associated with GHB in the brain.