Used primarily as a pharmaceutical intermediate in the synthesis of active drug substances, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. It serves as a key building block in the production of analgesics and receptor modulators due to its structural similarity to known bioactive piperidine compounds. Its hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and solubility, making it suitable for use in controlled laboratory synthesis and formulation processes. Commonly employed in research settings for structure-activity relationship studies targeting opioid and dopamine receptors.