Used primarily as a reducing agent in organic synthesis, it effectively converts esters and carboxylic acids into their corresponding alcohols, and amides and nitriles into amines. It is also employed in the reduction of ketones and aldehydes to secondary and primary alcohols, respectively. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it plays a crucial role in the synthesis of various drugs by facilitating key reduction steps. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of fine chemicals and in research laboratories for developing new organic compounds. Due to its high reactivity and sensitivity to moisture, it is handled with care, typically in anhydrous conditions to prevent decomposition.