Amyl nitrite is primarily used in the medical field as a vasodilator. It is administered to treat heart conditions such as angina pectoris by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces the heart's workload. It is often inhaled for rapid relief during acute angina attacks. Additionally, amyl nitrite has been used in diagnostic procedures to assess heart murmurs by temporarily altering blood flow patterns. Outside of medical applications, it is sometimes used recreationally for its euphoric and relaxing effects, though this is illegal and poses significant health risks. In industrial settings, it serves as a reagent in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of other organic compounds.