Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system. It serves as a building block for pyridine-containing compounds, which are common in bioactive molecules. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances solubility and stability, making it suitable for use in aqueous reaction conditions. Also employed in the preparation of ligands for catalytic processes and in the research of receptor agonists or antagonists due to the pyridyl group's affinity for biological targets.