Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders. Its structure allows for selective modification of piperidine-based molecules, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating analogs with improved bioavailability and receptor selectivity. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and cognitive enhancers. Also utilized in research settings for labeling and conjugation due to the reactive thioacetate group, which can be deprotected to form a thiol for further chemical attachment.