Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of nootropic drugs like piracetam and related racetam family compounds. It plays a key role in constructing chiral building blocks for cognitive enhancers and neuroprotective agents. The compound's stereochemistry makes it valuable for developing enantiomerically pure medications targeting neurological disorders. It is also employed in research settings for developing new psychotropic agents and studying neurotransmitter modulation.