Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of antimalarial drugs, particularly in the development of 8-aminoquinoline derivatives such as primaquine and tafenoquine. Its structure allows for functionalization at the amino group, enabling the creation of compounds that target the liver stages of Plasmodium parasites, including hypnozoites responsible for relapsing malaria. It is also employed in medicinal chemistry research to explore new bioactive molecules with potential antiparasitic, antibacterial, or anti-inflammatory properties. The ester group facilitates further chemical modifications, making it a valuable building block in drug discovery programs focused on infectious diseases.