Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of a piperidine ring with fluorinated substituents, which can enhance metabolic stability and blood-brain barrier penetration. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates targeting neurological disorders. Also utilized in the preparation of selective receptor modulators where the hydroxymethyl group allows for further functionalization or conjugation.