Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) requiring cycloaliphatic amine functionalities. Its structure allows for the introduction of a sterically hindered amine group, which can enhance metabolic stability and binding selectivity in drug molecules. Commonly employed in the preparation of analgesics and central nervous system agents due to the favorable pharmacokinetic properties imparted by the aminocyclohexyl moiety. Also utilized in the design of novel compounds for medicinal chemistry research, where the ethyl ester group can be hydrolyzed or further functionalized to tailor solubility and bioavailability.