Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. It serves as a building block for various psychoactive drugs and analgesics due to its structural similarity to known opioid receptor ligands. Commonly employed in research settings to design and optimize new compounds with potential pain-relieving or neuromodulatory effects. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and solubility, making it suitable for laboratory-scale reactions and formulation studies.