Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of a piperidine ring and a cyano group, which can be further modified. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing drug candidates targeting neurological disorders, including antidepressants and antipsychotics. Also utilized in the preparation of selective receptor modulators thanks to its favorable steric and electronic properties.