Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for functionalization at multiple sites, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions to introduce aromatic or heteroaromatic substituents. Also utilized in the preparation of novel benzodioxin-based analogs for biological screening in drug discovery programs.