Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of analgesic and antitussive agents. It serves as a building block for opioid receptor modulators and other central nervous system-active drugs. Its structure allows for functionalization at multiple sites, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for developing compounds with pain-relieving and cough-suppressant properties. Also utilized in research for designing new bioactive molecules and in the preparation of substituted piperidine derivatives with potential therapeutic applications.