Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, especially in the production of local anesthetics such as lidocaine and related derivatives. Its structure allows for efficient alkylation and amidation reactions, making it valuable in creating active pharmaceutical ingredients. It is also employed in the development of agrochemicals and specialty organic compounds where a functionalized benzene scaffold is required. Due to its amine and ester functionalities, it participates in multistep syntheses, enabling the introduction of nitrogen-containing side chains in complex molecules.