Used in pharmaceutical research as a chiral building block for synthesizing neuroactive compounds. It serves as an intermediate in the production of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders, particularly those involving neurotransmitter modulation. Its structural similarity to phenylalanine and tyrosine derivatives makes it valuable in designing enzyme inhibitors and receptor ligands. Also employed in the development of biologically active molecules where stereochemistry plays a critical role in activity. The hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and solubility for synthetic and formulation purposes.