Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of centrally acting agents such as antipsychotics and antidepressants. Its structure allows for functionalization at both the nitrile and ester groups, enabling the construction of complex piperidine-based scaffolds common in neuroactive drugs. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for lead optimization due to its favorable ring conformation and ability to mimic bioactive motifs in receptor binding. Also utilized in the preparation of selective enzyme inhibitors and ligands for neurological targets.