Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), particularly in the production of antidepressant pharmaceuticals. Its unique trifluoromethyl and amino-hydroxy functionality enables enhanced binding affinity to neurotransmitter transporters, improving the potency and metabolic stability of the final drug compound. It is also employed in the development of neuroimaging agents due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier efficiently. Additionally, this compound serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry for designing novel CNS-active agents with optimized pharmacokinetic profiles.