Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of centrally acting muscle relaxants and neuroactive compounds. It serves as a building block in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system, including agents for the treatment of spasticity and certain neurological disorders. Its structure allows for functionalization that enhances binding affinity to specific neural receptors, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry research. Additionally, it is employed in the preparation of chiral catalysts and ligands used in asymmetric synthesis.