Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of a fluorinated piperidine core, a hydroxymethyl group which can be further functionalized, and a tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting group on the nitrogen that enables regioselective reactions during synthesis. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates targeting neurological disorders, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics. Also utilized in the preparation of selective receptor modulators where fluorine substitution enhances metabolic stability and membrane permeability.