Used primarily in pharmaceutical research, this compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Its chiral structure makes it valuable in the development of enantiomerically pure drugs, particularly those targeting neurological and psychiatric disorders. The trifluoromethyl group enhances the metabolic stability and bioavailability of the resulting compounds. It is also employed in the preparation of ligands for asymmetric catalysis, aiding in the production of complex molecules with high stereochemical precision. Additionally, its hydrochloride form ensures better solubility and handling in laboratory settings.