Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its structure supports the design of bioactive molecules due to the presence of the nitrile group and the fluorinated aromatic ring, which enhance metabolic stability and binding affinity. Commonly employed in the preparation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other neuroactive drugs. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize drug candidates targeting neurological disorders.