Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of alpidem and related compounds, which are part of the imidazopyridine class of drugs targeting anxiety and insomnia. Its structure enables selective binding to GABA_A receptors, making it valuable in developing anxiolytic agents with reduced sedative effects. Also explored in medicinal chemistry for developing novel CNS-active agents due to its favorable pharmacokinetic properties and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.