Cariporide is primarily used in research and clinical settings to study its effects on heart conditions. It works by inhibiting the sodium-hydrogen exchanger, which plays a role in cell damage during cardiac events like heart attacks. This mechanism makes it a potential therapeutic agent for reducing injury to heart tissue during surgeries or after a heart attack. Additionally, it has been explored for its potential in protecting the heart during procedures that temporarily restrict blood flow, such as coronary artery bypass grafting. While its clinical use is still under investigation, Cariporide shows promise in improving outcomes for patients with heart-related issues.