Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) active agents. Its structure supports the creation of neuroactive molecules, including those with potential antipsychotic, antidepressant, or analgesic properties. The fluorinated ethyl group enhances blood-brain barrier penetration, making it valuable in designing brain-targeted therapeutics. It is also employed in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies involving piperidine-based derivatives.