Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for modification in drug design, making it valuable in creating potential antidepressants, antipsychotics, or analgesics. The amine group facilitates salt formation and enhances solubility, which is beneficial in formulation. Also employed in research settings for structure-activity relationship studies due to the constrained cyclobutane ring and aromatic substitution pattern.