Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of imidazole-based drugs which exhibit antifungal, antihypertensive, and anticancer activities. Its reactive bromomethyl group allows for easy alkylation and coupling reactions, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building complex molecules. Commonly employed in the preparation of histamine receptor ligands and kinase inhibitors. Also utilized in the creation of functionalized polymers and ionic liquids for catalysis and material science applications.