Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its piperidine backbone with hydroxy and tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting groups makes it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing complex molecules. Commonly employed in the preparation of selective receptor modulators, including those targeting serotonin and dopamine receptors. The compound's structure allows for selective functionalization, enabling efficient route design in drug discovery. Also utilized in the creation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis.