N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is primarily known as a hazardous byproduct rather than a deliberately used chemical in industrial applications. It can form during certain manufacturing processes, including the production of rubber, pesticides, dyes, and food processing such as curing meats and producing malt beverages, where dimethylamine and nitrosating agents are present. NDMA has also been detected as a contaminant in some pharmaceuticals, particularly in certain blood pressure medications and antacids, raising regulatory concerns due to its potent carcinogenicity.

It was historically used in research as a model compound to induce liver tumors in experimental animals, aiding in the study of carcinogenesis and cancer pharmacology. Due to its extreme toxicity and classification as a probable human carcinogen, any industrial use is highly restricted and controlled. Environmental monitoring of NDMA is critical in water treatment, as it can form during disinfection processes involving chloramination, especially when dimethylamine precursors are present in source water. Efforts focus on minimizing its formation and ensuring safe levels in drinking water and consumer products.