Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of isoquinoline-based bioactive compounds. Its reactive bromomethyl group allows for easy alkylation and functionalization, making it valuable in constructing nitrogen-containing heterocycles for medicinal chemistry. Commonly employed in the preparation of kinase inhibitors, anticancer agents, and central nervous system modulators. Also utilized in research for labeling and conjugation in probe molecules due to its selective reactivity.