Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antihypertensive drugs. It plays a key role in constructing active pharmaceutical ingredients due to its reactive nitrile and hydroxyl functional groups, which allow for further chemical modifications. Commonly employed in the development of angiotensin II receptor antagonists, aiding in the creation of medications for the treatment of high blood pressure. Its structure enables efficient coupling reactions in multi-step organic syntheses, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry and drug development processes.