Used primarily as a synthetic intermediate in organic chemistry, this compound serves in the preparation of indole-based pharmaceuticals and bioactive molecules. Its nitrile group allows for further functionalization, enabling conversion to carboxylic acids, amines, or tetrazoles, which are common motifs in drug design. It is also employed in the development of serotonin receptor ligands due to the structural similarity to tryptamine derivatives. Additionally, it finds use in medicinal chemistry research for building blocks in the synthesis of potential neuroactive agents.