Used in the synthesis of psychoactive substances, particularly in the production of hallucinogenic phenethylamines such as TMA-2 and related analogs. It serves as a key intermediate in organic chemistry for constructing substituted amphetamines and tryptamines. Its aldehyde group allows for condensation reactions, making it valuable in creating carbon-carbon bonds during multi-step syntheses. Also employed in research settings to explore structure-activity relationships in neuroactive compounds. Due to its role in controlled substance synthesis, handling and distribution are regulated in many countries.