Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and muscle relaxants. Its structural configuration allows for selective interactions with biological targets, making it valuable in creating chiral drugs. Commonly employed in the preparation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs, which are important for treating neurological disorders such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry research for designing compounds with improved metabolic stability and bioavailability.