Used primarily in research settings as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly those targeting central nervous system disorders. It serves as a building block for developing novel agents with potential antidepressant, anxiolytic, or antipsychotic activity. Its structure allows for modification to enhance binding affinity to specific receptors, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for drug discovery. Also utilized in the preparation of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and related neuroactive molecules. Not intended for direct therapeutic use.