Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of receptor antagonists and central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for selective modification, making it valuable in creating analogs for drug discovery. Commonly utilized in research settings to develop potential treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Also employed in the preparation of radiolabeled derivatives for use in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies.