This compound is primarily utilized in the field of organic synthesis, where it serves as a key intermediate in the production of various pharmaceuticals. Its structure is particularly valuable in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system, as it can be modified to create compounds with specific receptor-binding properties. Additionally, it finds application in the synthesis of chiral molecules, which are crucial for creating enantiomerically pure drugs. Its nitrile group also makes it a versatile building block for further chemical transformations, enabling the creation of complex molecular architectures.