Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anxiolytic and sedative agents. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating imidazopyridine-based drug candidates. Commonly employed in the preparation of compounds targeting GABA receptors, it plays a role in the production of drugs similar to zolpidem and related central nervous system modulators. Also utilized in research settings for generating novel heterocyclic compounds with potential biological activity.