Talampanel is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic applications in neurological disorders. It acts as an AMPA receptor antagonist, which makes it a candidate for treating conditions like epilepsy, particularly in cases where patients do not respond well to conventional antiepileptic drugs. By modulating glutamate activity, it may help reduce seizure frequency and severity.

Additionally, Talampanel has been studied for its potential use in neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is believed to slow disease progression by protecting neurons from excitotoxicity, a process where excessive glutamate leads to nerve cell damage. Early-phase clinical trials have explored its efficacy and safety in these contexts, though further research is needed to confirm its benefits.

In oncology, Talampanel has been examined for its ability to inhibit tumor growth, particularly in glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. Its mechanism of action, which involves blocking glutamate signaling, may disrupt the tumor microenvironment and reduce cancer cell proliferation. However, its application in cancer treatment remains experimental and requires more extensive studies.