Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of active ingredients for antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs. Its chiral center allows for enantioselective synthesis, making it valuable in developing optically pure compounds. Also employed in the preparation of agrochemicals and specialty fluorinated compounds where enhanced metabolic stability and bioavailability are required. The presence of the trifluoromethyl group contributes to improved lipophilicity and resistance to oxidative degradation, which is beneficial in drug design.