Used primarily as a cytoprotective agent in cancer therapy, it helps reduce toxicity caused by chemotherapy and radiation. It protects normal tissues, especially salivary glands, from damage during treatment without interfering with the therapeutic effects on cancer cells. Commonly administered in patients undergoing radiation for head and neck cancers to prevent xerostomia (dry mouth). Also used with certain chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin to reduce kidney damage and bone marrow suppression. Its selective protection of healthy cells makes it valuable in improving patient tolerance to aggressive treatments.