Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry for the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It plays a key role in the production of dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness. Also utilized in the synthesis of certain local anesthetics and other nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. Its reactivity as an aldehyde with an amine functionality makes it valuable in condensation reactions and the formation of enamines or imines. Commonly handled as a stable hydrochloride salt to improve storage and handling properties in industrial processes.