Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of Tapentadol, a centrally acting analgesic with dual μ-opioid agonist and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor activity for treating moderate to severe pain. Its structure is essential for constructing the pharmacophore of this therapeutic agent targeting the neurological system. Additionally, it is utilized in medicinal chemistry and organic synthesis research for developing novel CNS-active compounds and exploring reaction pathways.