Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of local anesthetics and antiarrhythmic agents. Its structure allows for the development of chiral compounds important in drug design, where stereochemistry influences biological activity. The hydrochloride salt form enhances stability and solubility, making it suitable for use in controlled synthetic pathways. It also finds use in research settings for developing novel bioactive molecules and in the preparation of enantiomerically pure drugs.