1-Adamantanecarbonitrile is primarily used in organic synthesis as a versatile building block for the creation of more complex molecules. Its rigid adamantane structure makes it valuable in the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the design of drugs that target the central nervous system. The compound is also employed in the synthesis of advanced materials, such as polymers and liquid crystals, due to its stability and unique geometric properties. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the production of other adamantane derivatives, which are utilized in various industrial and research applications.