Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the construction of complex aminoketone structures. Its structure allows for functionalization on both the aromatic and cyclohexanone moieties, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for designing bioactive molecules. It has been explored in research settings for potential analgesic and central nervous system-active agents, though it is not used clinically. The compound is also utilized in forensic and analytical studies as a reference standard due to its structural similarity to controlled substances.