3-Isobutylglutarimid is primarily utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) drugs. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of compounds that exhibit sedative and hypnotic properties. Additionally, it is employed in research to study the effects of certain chemical structures on neurological pathways, aiding in the discovery of new therapeutic agents for conditions like insomnia and anxiety. Its role in organic synthesis also extends to the creation of complex molecules for further biological testing and drug development.