Used as an intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates. Its functional groups, including the hydroxyl and ester moieties, allow for selective modifications, making it valuable in constructing complex piperidine-based structures. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing pharmacokinetic properties and enhancing target selectivity in central nervous system agents. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators due to its conformational rigidity and polarity profile.