Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and cognitive enhancers. It serves as a building block for nootropic compounds, including derivatives of piracetam and other racetam-class drugs. Its structure supports modulation of neurotransmitter systems, making it valuable in research on neuroprotection and memory improvement. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral synthons for asymmetric synthesis in medicinal chemistry.