Used in the synthesis of opioid antagonists, particularly in the development of medications for treating opioid dependence and overdose. It serves as a key intermediate in producing compounds like naltrexone and naloxone, which block opioid receptors in the brain. These medications are critical in reversing opioid overdoses and supporting addiction treatment programs. Its structural properties allow for high affinity to opioid receptors, making it valuable in pharmaceutical research and development. Also utilized in creating probes for studying opioid receptor activity in neuroscience.