Used in research settings to study cholinergic systems, particularly as a selective agonist for muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. It helps in understanding receptor subtypes and their role in neurological functions such as memory, learning, and muscle contraction. Also employed in pharmacological assays to evaluate drug interactions and signal transduction pathways involving acetylcholine. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances solubility and stability for in vitro and in vivo experiments.