Used primarily as a research compound in pharmacological studies, this chemical acts as a potent phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. Due to its structure similar to theophylline, it inhibits PDE activity, resulting in increased intracellular levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP). It is utilized to investigate mechanisms in the central nervous system, particularly in respiratory, cardiovascular, and neural pathways, as well as inflammation and immune responses. Not intended for human use, it remains restricted to laboratory and experimental applications, serving as a reference compound or starting material in new drug development.