Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), this compound plays a key role in the development of medications that reduce stomach acid production. It is involved in the preparation of drugs used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other acid-related gastrointestinal disorders. Due to its reactive sulfinyl and pyridine N-oxide functionalities, it enables selective transformations in multi-step drug manufacturing processes, particularly in creating chiral active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with high purity. Its structure supports efficient coupling and oxidation reactions, making it valuable in fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries for producing acid-suppressive therapeutics.