Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of active ingredients for central nervous system (CNS) drugs. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable in developing enantioselective medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to its ability to enhance binding affinity and selectivity toward neurotransmitter receptors. Also utilized in the development of radiolabeled derivatives for receptor imaging and pharmacokinetic studies.