Used historically as an antimalarial agent, particularly during World War II when access to quinine was limited. It has also been employed in the treatment of certain parasitic infections such as giardiasis and tapeworm infestations. In medical research, it serves as a fluorescent stain for DNA, useful in cytogenetics and cell biology for chromosome visualization. Investigated for its potential in treating autoimmune conditions like lupus, and explored experimentally for its anticancer properties due to its ability to intercalate DNA and inhibit topoisomerases. Additionally, it has been used as an adjunct in pleurodesis to prevent recurrent pleural effusions.