Used primarily in research settings as a metabolite reference standard for valproic acid, aiding in the study of metabolic pathways and drug interactions. It supports analytical methods like mass spectrometry and HPLC to monitor valproic acid metabolism in biological samples. Also utilized in neuroscience and pharmacology studies to understand the effects of valproic acid derivatives on cellular function and toxicity. Its sodium salt form enhances solubility, making it suitable for in vitro experiments requiring aqueous solutions.