Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) drugs. Its structural features enable high selectivity and binding affinity to specific neuronal receptors, making it valuable in creating anticonvulsant and neuroprotective compounds. The presence of the trifluoromethoxy group enhances metabolic stability and lipophilicity, improving blood-brain barrier penetration. It is also employed in the preparation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs for treating epilepsy and neuropathic pain.