Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and psychoactive substances, particularly amphetamine derivatives like those based on the benzodioxole moiety. Its alpha-bromo ketone structure allows for easy functionalization via nucleophilic substitution, making it valuable in creating bioactive molecules with central nervous system activity. Commonly employed in research settings to develop compounds targeting neurological receptors and selective ligands. Due to its high reactivity, it plays a crucial role in organic transformations, including the formation of ether or amine linkages in psychoactive compound synthesis.