Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. It serves as a building block for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs, which are important in treating neurological disorders such as epilepsy, anxiety, and insomnia. The presence of the nitrile and trifluoromethyl groups enhances metabolic stability and binding affinity to target receptors. Its structure allows for further functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates. Also employed in the preparation of agrochemicals and specialty materials due to its unique electronic and steric properties.