tert-Butyl ((3S,4S)-3-hydroxypiperidin-4-yl)carbamate is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of biologically active compounds. Its structure, featuring both a hydroxyl group and a carbamate group, makes it a valuable building block for creating molecules with potential therapeutic effects. It is often employed in the preparation of inhibitors or modulators targeting enzymes or receptors, such as those involved in neurological or metabolic disorders. The stereochemistry of the compound also allows for the development of enantiomerically pure drugs, enhancing specificity and efficacy in drug design. Additionally, it can be utilized in peptide chemistry for the protection of amino groups during synthesis.