Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of imidazole-containing drugs with antifungal, antihistaminic, and anticancer properties. It plays an important role in the development of histamine H2 receptor antagonists and other bioactive molecules due to its ability to act as a building block for more complex heterocyclic systems. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances solubility and stability, making it suitable for use in aqueous reaction environments. Also employed in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies involving imidazole derivatives.