Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of psychoactive drugs and antidepressants. It serves as a building block in organic reactions where a brominated ketone functionality is required. Commonly employed in the preparation of substituted phenethylamines and other bioactive molecules. Also utilized in research settings for developing novel compounds with potential neurological activity. Its reactivity makes it valuable in carbon-chain extension reactions and in forming carbon-carbon bonds via nucleophilic substitution or Grignard reactions.