Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and enzyme inhibitors. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable for creating enantioselective drugs. Commonly employed in the preparation of β-amino acid derivatives and peptidomimetics, which are important in drug design for improved metabolic stability and bioavailability. Also utilized in the production of intermediates for antidepressants and anticonvulsants.