Used in the synthesis of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly as an intermediate in producing phenylacetic acid derivatives with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry for developing compounds that inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Also employed in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds for pharmaceutical research. Its structure allows functional modifications to enhance bioavailability and target specificity in drug design.