Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other neuroactive compounds. The amine group allows for coupling reactions, enabling the formation of amides or secondary amines in drug design. Frequently employed in asymmetric synthesis due to its stereochemical purity, enhancing the efficacy and specificity of resulting therapeutics.