Used in research as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, this compound is primarily employed in neuroscience and pharmacology studies to investigate mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It helps in understanding the role of serotonin in the central nervous system due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate neurotransmitter levels. Its structural specificity allows for minimal interaction with other neurotransmitter systems, making it a valuable tool in creating animal models for psychiatric conditions. Additionally, it has been used in radiolabeled form to map serotonin transporters in brain tissue.