Used in pharmaceutical research as an intermediate for synthesizing biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Shows potential in the study of neurological disorders due to structural similarity to known neuroactive molecules. Also employed in the preparation of selective receptor ligands for pharmacological testing. Its derivatives are investigated for antipsychotic and antidepressant activities. Commonly utilized in lab-scale synthesis to explore structure-activity relationships in tetrahydroisoquinoline-based drugs.