Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its structure supports binding affinity to neurotransmitter receptors, making it valuable in creating antidepressants and anxiolytic drugs. The presence of the trifluoromethyl group enhances metabolic stability and bioavailability in final drug formulations. It is also employed in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and receptor antagonists in medicinal chemistry research. Additionally, this compound serves as a building block in combinatorial chemistry for high-throughput screening of biologically active molecules.