This compound serves as a key intermediate in the pharmaceutical industry, primarily for the synthesis of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, and rabeprazole, used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other acid-related gastrointestinal disorders. The N-oxide group enables selective functionalization in multi-step syntheses. It is also utilized in organic synthesis to build complex pyridine-based molecules due to its reactive hydroxymethyl and pyridine N-oxide moieties. In research, it acts as a building block for investigating synthetic routes, drug metabolism, and biochemical pathways. Its stability and solubility support applications in formulation studies and drug delivery systems.