Used primarily as a pharmaceutical intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable in creating enantiomerically pure drugs, where it serves as a chiral building block. It is also employed in the preparation of selective receptor modulators, including those targeting serotonin and dopamine receptors. Due to the presence of the benzyl group and tertiary amine functionality, it enhances lipophilicity and membrane permeability in drug candidates, improving bioavailability. Commonly found in research settings for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of piperazine-based therapeutics.