Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Its functionalized aromatic ring allows for selective reactions, making it valuable in the development of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders and antimicrobial agents. The bromo and hydroxyl groups enable coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Ullmann reactions, useful in building complex molecules. Also employed in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and receptor ligands due to its structural similarity to natural phenolic compounds.