Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of selective receptor modulators. Its structure allows for functionalization at the aldehyde group, enabling the formation of imines, hydrazones, or alcohols, which are key in constructing bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for designing drugs targeting central nervous system disorders due to the presence of the piperidine moiety, which enhances blood-brain barrier penetration. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and sensors by incorporating the aldehyde into conjugated systems for detection of biomolecules.