Used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-tuberculosis drugs due to its structural similarity to isoniazid, a key compound in tuberculosis treatment. It serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis, enabling the creation of various heterocyclic compounds with potential therapeutic applications. Additionally, it is utilized in research for designing novel drug candidates targeting bacterial and fungal infections. Its hydroxyl and carboxylic acid functional groups make it versatile for chemical modifications, enhancing its role in medicinal chemistry.