Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antidepressants and anticonvulsant drugs. Its functional groups—nitrile, hydroxyl, and bromoaryl—allow for selective chemical modifications, making it valuable in building complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions due to the bromine substituent, enabling the formation of carbon-carbon bonds in drug development. Also utilized in research settings for designing novel bioactive compounds with central nervous system activity.