Cyclic Imides as Bioactive Scaffolds for Various Neurological Disorders (A Review)

Non-aromatic nitrogen heterocycles, such as succinimide, maleimide, and phthalimide, represent a fascinating class of compounds with diverse pharmacological applications. A common structural feature among these molecules is the presence of a nitrogen atom bonded to two carbonyl groups, forming a cyclic imide structure. These compounds are generally neutral and lipophilic, enabling them to traverse biological membranes and exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities, including anticancer, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-influenza, anti-AIDS, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antithromboxane, herbicidal, and insecticidal effects. Notably, succinimide, maleimide, and phthalimide derivatives have shown significant potential as scaffolds for developing anticonvulsant and antiepileptic agents. Even the unsubstituted cyclic imides demonstrate considerable biological activity. This review focuses on the chemistry, structure–activity relationships (SAR), and anticonvulsant properties of various succinimide, maleimide, and phthalimide analogs. Although current epilepsy treatments—such as pharmacotherapy, surgery, electrical stimulation, and dietary interventions—offer some control, seizure management remains a major clinical challenge. Thus, there is a continuous need for novel antiepileptic drugs with improved specificity and reduced central nervous system (CNS) toxicity. This review highlights cyclic imide compounds with promising anticonvulsant potential and discusses recent advances in imide derivatives that may contribute to the development of future therapeutics.