Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that require pyrrolidinone derivatives. It plays a role in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system due to its structural similarity to neurotransmitter analogs. Also utilized in the preparation of nootropic compounds and certain antipsychotic medications. Its hydrochloride form enhances solubility and stability in synthetic processes, making it valuable in industrial-scale drug manufacturing. Additionally, it serves as a building block in organic synthesis for creating complex heterocyclic systems used in medicinal chemistry.