Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole and related drugs. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in forming key pyridine-based scaffolds in active pharmaceutical ingredients. Commonly employed in coupling reactions to introduce the pyridinylmethyl moiety in drug molecules targeting gastric acid secretion. Also utilized in research for developing new bioactive compounds due to its reactivity and stability in various reaction conditions.