Tropinone is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmacologically active compounds, especially those related to the tropane alkaloid family. It plays a key role in the production of anticholinergic drugs such as atropine and scopolamine, which are used to treat conditions like motion sickness, gastrointestinal disorders, and certain neurological symptoms. Due to its structural similarity to biologically active alkaloids, tropinone also serves as a model compound in studies of enzyme mechanisms and biosynthetic pathways in organic chemistry. Additionally, it has been used in academic research to develop new synthetic methods, including biomimetic syntheses that mimic natural processes.