Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluorinated pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antifungal agents like voriconazole. Its structure allows for selective binding and enhanced metabolic stability in final drug compounds. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis due to the chiral center, enabling the development of enantiomerically pure medications. Also utilized in research for developing novel CNS-active agents owing to its ability to cross biological membranes and interact with central nervous system targets.