This compound is primarily utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It is particularly significant in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system, including antidepressants and psychostimulants. Its structural properties make it suitable for binding to specific receptors in the brain, influencing neurotransmitter activity. Additionally, it is employed in research settings to study the pharmacological effects of fluorinated compounds and their interactions with biological systems. Its role in enantioselective synthesis is also noteworthy, as the (R)-enantiomer often exhibits distinct biological activity compared to its (S)-counterpart.