Malonyl hydrazide itself exhibits inherent fluorescent properties, and its fluorescence intensity demonstrates high sensitivity and selectivity toward copper ions (Cu²⁺). When malonyl hydrazide binds with copper ions to form a coordination complex, its fluorescence signal undergoes significant quenching. Based on this principle, malonyl hydrazide has been developed as a novel fluorescent probe.
It serves as a key raw material for the synthesis of certain pharmaceuticals—specifically, derivatives of the anti-tuberculosis drug isoniazid. Through the reaction of malonyl hydrazide with isoniazid, compounds possessing specific pharmacological activities can be synthesized; these compounds may exhibit anti-tuberculosis or other biological activities, finding application in the treatment of tuberculosis or in the research and development of novel drugs.