Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and dyes. It serves in the preparation of certain analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds due to its functional groups that allow further chemical modifications. Also employed in research settings for developing novel organic compounds, particularly in the design of nitro-containing bioactive molecules. Its hydroxy and carboxylic acid groups enable salt formation and esterification, useful in prodrug strategies. Additionally, it finds use in analytical chemistry as a derivatizing agent for detecting amines and alcohols.