Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of bioactive molecules, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the design of compounds with potential antipsychotic, antidepressant, or anti-inflammatory activity. The presence of the trifluoromethylphenyl group enhances metabolic stability and membrane permeability, making it valuable in optimizing drug candidates. Also employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to its rigid piperidone core and lipophilic aromatic substituent.