Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiepileptic drugs, particularly levetiracetam and its analogs. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in producing enantiomerically pure active pharmaceutical ingredients. The compound plays a key role in enhancing the selectivity and efficacy of neurological medications by contributing to the optimal binding conformation in the central nervous system. It is also employed in research for developing new nootropic and neuroprotective agents.