Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its structure allows for the creation of conformationally restricted analogs, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing receptor selectivity and metabolic stability. Commonly employed in the preparation of analgesics and muscle relaxants due to its ability to mimic bioactive conformations of flexible molecules. Also utilized in the production of specialty chemicals where a rigid cyclohexane backbone with functionalized substituents is required.