Used as a metabolic intermediate in the synthesis of nicotinamide derivatives, this compound plays a role in pharmaceutical research, particularly in the development of drugs targeting metabolic pathways and nervous system disorders. It serves as a building block in the preparation of bioactive molecules due to its structural similarity to pyridine-based cofactors involved in redox reactions. Its amide and keto functionalities allow for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates.