Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system (CNS) active agents. Its enantiomeric purity is critical for achieving desired biological activity and minimizing side effects in final drug products. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis routes where the (S)-configuration enhances binding affinity to specific neurotransmitter targets. Also utilized in the development of radiolabeled derivatives for receptor binding studies and in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) exploration.