Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the pharmaceutical industry for developing active pharmaceutical ingredients. It serves as a building block in the production of certain anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds due to its reactive ketone and acetyl functional groups. Its cyclic structure also makes it valuable in the synthesis of specialty fragrances and flavoring agents, where it contributes a warm, musky note. Additionally, it finds use in research settings for studying reaction mechanisms involving alpha-dicarbonyl systems.