Used in pharmaceutical synthesis as an intermediate for xanthine derivatives, particularly in the production of bronchodilators like theophylline analogs. The compound facilitates efficient acylation and protection steps in heterocyclic chemistry due to the strong electron-withdrawing effect of the trifluoroacetic component. It is also employed in peptide coupling and modification of purine-based structures under mild reaction conditions. Its stability and solubility profile make it suitable for use in liquid-phase synthesis and purification processes.