Used primarily as a chemical intermediate in pharmaceutical research and development. It serves as a building block for synthesizing bioactive molecules, particularly in the creation of receptor ligands targeting neurological pathways. Its structure supports modification for use in medicinal chemistry, especially in studies related to dopamine and serotonin receptors. Also employed in the preparation of novel compounds for screening in drug discovery programs. Due to the presence of nitro and benzyl groups, it participates in various coupling and reduction reactions to form more complex heterocyclic systems.