tert-Butyl 4-aminopicolinate is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. It plays a crucial role in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), particularly in the production of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders and other therapeutic areas. Its structure allows for further functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating molecules with specific biological activities. Additionally, it is utilized in research and development for designing and optimizing drug candidates, contributing to advancements in drug discovery and the creation of novel treatments.