This compound is primarily utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of chiral drugs. Its structure, featuring a piperidine ring and a chiral center, makes it a valuable intermediate in creating molecules with specific stereochemistry, which is crucial for the efficacy and safety of many medications. It is often employed in the production of compounds targeting the central nervous system, such as antipsychotics or analgesics, due to its ability to interact with neurotransmitter receptors. Additionally, it serves as a building block in organic synthesis for constructing complex molecules in medicinal chemistry research.