Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the design of bioactive molecules with enhanced metabolic stability due to the presence of the trifluoromethyl group. It also finds use in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and anti-inflammatory compounds. In research, it serves as a building block for novel indole-based derivatives in medicinal chemistry.