Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of centrally acting agents such as dopamine receptor modulators. Its piperidine backbone with a protected amine and ketone functionality allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis routes where the (S)-configuration is critical for biological activity. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and neuroactive compounds due to its structural similarity to natural alkaloids.