Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic drugs. Its aldehyde group allows for easy functionalization via reactions such as reductive amination or condensation, enabling the construction of complex molecules. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for the preparation of pyridine-based derivatives with potential biological activity, including kinase inhibitors and receptor antagonists. Also utilized in the design of prodrugs and targeted therapeutics due to its modifiable amine and aldehyde functionalities.