Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain tricyclic antidepressant drugs. It plays a key role in the production of medications that affect neurotransmitter reuptake in the central nervous system. Due to its tricyclic structure, it serves as a core scaffold in developing psychoactive pharmaceuticals, particularly those targeting depression and neuropathic pain. Its derivatives exhibit affinity for serotonin and norepinephrine receptors, making it valuable in psychopharmacology research and drug development.