Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) active compounds. Its chiral structure and functional groups make it valuable in creating enantiomerically pure drugs, especially those targeting neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and pain. The presence of a hydroxymethyl group allows for further chemical modifications, enabling the attachment of various pharmacophores. It is also employed in medicinal chemistry research for optimizing drug candidates due to its favorable stereochemistry and metabolic stability.