WAY-301299 is primarily used in scientific research to study the role of the orexin system in regulating wakefulness, sleep, and arousal. It acts as a potent and selective agonist at the orexin 2 receptor (OX2R), making it a valuable tool for investigating the physiological and behavioral effects of orexin signaling. Due to its ability to promote wakefulness, it has been explored in preclinical models for potential applications in sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, particularly in cases involving loss of orexin signaling. Its use remains limited to experimental settings, where it helps researchers understand how selective activation of orexin pathways can influence alertness and cognitive performance without the side effects associated with traditional stimulants.