Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents and muscle relaxants. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both ester and lactam functionalities, enabling diverse chemical modifications. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing isoquinoline-based compounds with potential therapeutic activity. Also utilized in research settings for designing enzyme inhibitors and studying structure-activity relationships in heterocyclic compounds.