Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents and neuromodulatory drugs. Its structure allows for functionalization at both the piperidine nitrogen and the carbonyl group, making it valuable in constructing bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in the preparation of selective receptor agonists and antagonists, especially for serotonin, dopamine, and sigma receptors. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry research for optimizing drug candidates due to its conformational rigidity and fluorine-induced metabolic stability.