Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of vitamins such as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and related compounds. It plays a key role in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients due to its pyridine ring structure, which is common in many bioactive molecules. Also utilized in the preparation of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals where functionalized pyridine derivatives are required. Its hydroxymethyl and methyl groups allow for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in organic synthesis and drug development processes.