Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of thiamine (vitamin B1), which plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism, particularly in the nervous and digestive systems. It serves as a building block for pyrimidine-based pharmaceuticals, including antihypertensive and antiviral agents, as well as drugs for nervous system disorders. The compound's ability to form hydrogen bonds and undergo ring modifications makes it valuable in medicinal chemistry research and drug discovery. Additionally, it is employed in agrochemicals for the development of herbicides and plant growth regulators, with functional groups facilitating easy derivatization.