Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound plays a key role in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and bioactive molecules. Its bromo and hydroxyl functional groups allow for selective reactions, enabling the introduction of the benzodioxolyl moiety into more complex structures. It is particularly valuable in the development of central nervous system agents and antimicrobial compounds. The presence of the methylenedioxyphenyl (MDP) group also makes it useful in the synthesis of certain psychoactive substance analogs for research purposes, though it is not active itself. Its reactivity supports transformations such as nucleophilic substitution and ether formation, making it a versatile building block in medicinal chemistry.