This chemical is primarily utilized in organic synthesis as an intermediate for the production of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a building block in the synthesis of compounds that exhibit biological activity, particularly in the development of drugs targeting neurological and cardiovascular systems. Additionally, it is used in the preparation of specialty chemicals, including dyes and pigments, due to its ability to introduce specific functional groups into complex molecules. Its nitrile group makes it a valuable precursor in the synthesis of amines, carboxylic acids, and other derivatives through hydrolysis or reduction reactions.