Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and other central nervous system agents. Its fluorinated structure enhances binding affinity and metabolic stability in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing bioactive molecules where fluorine substitution improves pharmacokinetic properties. Also utilized in research settings for labeling and tracer studies due to the presence of fluorine, which facilitates detection by 19F NMR spectroscopy.