Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and antitumor compounds. It serves as a building block in the preparation of isoquinoline-based bioactive molecules, including kinase inhibitors and antimicrobial agents. Its structure is also explored in medicinal chemistry for designing novel therapeutics targeting neurological disorders due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, it finds use in research settings for structure-activity relationship studies of heterocyclic compounds.