Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents. Its structure allows for functionalization in multi-step reactions, making it valuable in developing active pharmaceutical ingredients. Also employed in the preparation of chiral compounds through asymmetric synthesis, which are essential in creating enantiomerically pure drugs. Its nitrile and ketone groups provide reactive sites for further chemical modifications, enhancing its utility in medicinal chemistry research and development.