Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anxiolytic and sedative agents. It plays a significant role in the preparation of imidazopyridine-based drugs, which interact with benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system. Its structure allows for efficient derivatization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug potency and selectivity. Also employed in the creation of novel heterocyclic compounds for biological activity screening in drug discovery programs.