Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of central nervous system agents. It serves as a building block for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs, which are important in the development of drugs for neurological disorders such as epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety. Also utilized in research settings for the preparation of biologically active compounds and in the development of prodrugs due to its ester and amine functionalities.