Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of centrally acting agents such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. Its enantiomeric purity makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis where stereochemistry influences biological activity. Commonly employed in the preparation of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors due to the structural compatibility with neurotransmitter analogs. Also utilized in the manufacture of agrochemicals and fine chemicals requiring high enantiomeric selectivity.