Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of certain central nervous system (CNS) agents and antidepressants. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in developing bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in research settings for creating fluorinated analogs of therapeutic compounds, where the fluorine atom enhances metabolic stability and binding affinity. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis in medicinal chemistry.