Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) agents and anti-inflammatory drugs. Its structure supports the formation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both carboxylic acid and hydroxyl functional groups, which allow for diverse chemical modifications. Commonly employed in the preparation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other neurologically active compounds. Also utilized in agrochemicals for the design of herbicides and fungicides owing to the stability and lipophilicity imparted by the trifluoromethyl group.