Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and analgesics. Its structure provides a rigid cyclohexane backbone with functional groups suitable for modifying potency and selectivity in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing pharmacokinetic properties such as metabolic stability and bioavailability. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators due to its favorable stereochemistry and ability to mimic peptide-like structures.