Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. It serves as a building block for compounds with potential antidepressant, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic activities. Its structure allows for modification to enhance binding affinity to neurotransmitter receptors, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry research. Also employed in the preparation of selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors and serotonin modulators. Additionally, it finds use in the creation of chiral catalysts for asymmetric synthesis due to its amine functionality and rigid backbone.