Used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) drugs. Acts as a key intermediate in creating compounds that target serotonin and dopamine receptors, aiding in the treatment of psychiatric disorders like depression and schizophrenia. Also employed in research for designing molecules with potential antipsychotic and antidepressant properties. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, enhancing the efficacy and specificity of therapeutic agents.