Used primarily as a tear-inducing agent in riot control and self-defense sprays. It causes rapid eye irritation, temporary blindness, coughing, and difficulty breathing, making it effective for non-lethal crowd control. The compound is highly potent in small concentrations and acts quickly upon exposure to mucous membranes. It is often formulated in aerosol sprays for law enforcement and personal protection due to its immediate but reversible effects. Its stability and low toxicity at controlled levels make it suitable for such applications.