Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and related central nervous system (CNS) active compounds. Its spirocyclic structure and methylsulfonyl group enhance binding selectivity and metabolic stability, making it valuable in optimizing drug candidates for antidepressant and anxiolytic therapies. It is also employed in medicinal chemistry research to explore new bioactive molecules targeting neurological disorders.