Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of nootropic drugs such as piracetam and related racetam family compounds. It plays a key role in constructing the pyrrolidone backbone essential for cognitive-enhancing agents. Commonly employed in research settings for developing compounds that influence neurotransmitter systems and improve memory and learning functions. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis in medicinal chemistry.