Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of biologically active molecules targeting central nervous system disorders. Its chiral structure with a fluorinated moiety enhances metabolic stability and binding selectivity, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and receptor modulators where fluorine substitution improves pharmacokinetic properties. Also utilized in the design of enzyme inhibitors due to the hydroxymethyl group enabling further functionalization.