Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and adrenergic compounds. Its structural features make it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where the stereochemistry influences biological activity. Commonly employed in the preparation of beta-amino alcohols, which are key motifs in many bioactive molecules, including bronchodilators and cardiovascular drugs. Also utilized in the design of enzyme inhibitors and receptor ligands due to its ability to mimic natural neurotransmitters.