Used as an important starting material in the synthesis of drugs affecting the central nervous system, particularly in the group of non-benzodiazepine sedatives. These have properties to relieve anxiety, reduce panic symptoms, and aid in better sleep, without causing drug tolerance or severe side effects like benzodiazepines.

Additionally, this substance is used in the research and development of new drugs targeting the GABA-A receptor, as its structure binds specifically to the receptor, providing potential for more effective and safer drug development.

In pharmaceutical research, this compound also serves as a reference standard or control in testing the activity of new compounds designed to function in the same neural system.