Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and other bioactive molecules targeting central nervous system disorders and cancer. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building complex heterocyclic compounds. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions such as Suzuki-Miyaura and Buchwald-Hartwig aminations to form C–C and C–N bonds, enabling the construction of drug-like molecules. Also utilized in research settings for the design of novel isoquinoline-based compounds with potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.