Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of compounds with neuroactive properties, making it valuable in research for antidepressants, antipsychotics, and cognitive enhancers. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to its rigid piperidine backbone and ester functionality, which aid in optimizing drug potency and selectivity. Also utilized in the preparation of analogs for biological screening in neuropharmacology.