Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its hydroxyl and piperidine functional groups allow for selective modifications, making it valuable in creating enantiomerically pure drugs. Commonly employed in the production of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and cognitive enhancers due to its ability to influence blood-brain barrier penetration. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies involving piperidine-based bioactive molecules.