Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents. It serves as a building block for guanidine-containing molecules, which are important in medicinal chemistry for their ability to interact with enzymes and receptors. Commonly employed in the preparation of thrombin inhibitors and other serine protease inhibitors. Also utilized in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds due to its bifunctional reactivity. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and solubility, making it suitable for use in aqueous and polar organic solvents during synthetic processes.