Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of opioid analgesics and central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for modification at both the cyclopropyl and hydroxyl groups, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for developing compounds with specific receptor binding properties. Commonly employed in the preparation of potent pain management drugs where the piperidine ring serves as a core scaffold. Also utilized in research settings for designing new bioactive molecules targeting neurological pathways.