Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system (CNS) active agents. Its structure allows for effective modulation of biological activity in drug candidates, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing potency and selectivity. Commonly employed in research settings to construct complex molecules requiring piperidine-based scaffolds with electron-withdrawing substituents. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorinated analogs to improve metabolic stability and bioavailability in new chemical entities.