Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of biologically active compounds where stereochemistry plays a critical role. Its fluorinated structure enhances metabolic stability and membrane permeability, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates. Commonly employed in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators, especially in central nervous system and metabolic disorder research. The hydrochloride salt form improves solubility and handling in synthetic processes.