Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly as a chiral building block in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It plays a role in the development of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and depression, due to its structural similarity to neurotransmitters. Additionally, it is utilized in research for creating enantiomerically pure compounds, which are critical in optimizing drug efficacy and reducing side effects. Its hydrochloride form enhances solubility, making it suitable for various formulation processes in drug manufacturing.