Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of neuroactive compounds and central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of chiral building blocks for drug design, especially in nootropics and anticonvulsant medications. The trifluoromethyl group enhances metabolic stability and membrane permeability, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for improving pharmacokinetic properties. Also employed in the preparation of specialty polymers and functional materials where thermal and chemical resistance are required.