Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of nicotinic receptor modulators and central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for selective derivatization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing heterocyclic scaffolds. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions to introduce pyridone moieties into bioactive molecules. Also utilized in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents. Its reactivity profile supports rapid exploration of structure-activity relationships in drug discovery programs.