Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both amine and ester functionalities in a stereochemically defined arrangement. Commonly employed in the preparation of antihypertensive and anticonvulsant compounds. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis to introduce the 4-chlorophenyl moiety with high enantioselectivity. The hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and handling during industrial processing.