Used primarily as a synthetic intermediate in organic chemistry, particularly in pharmaceutical research. It serves as a building block for compounds requiring rigid, lipophilic structures, enhancing metabolic stability and bioavailability in drug candidates. Commonly applied in the development of neuroprotective agents and antiviral drugs due to the adamantane moiety's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Also utilized in the synthesis of specialty polymers and ligands for catalysis where steric bulk and thermal stability are advantageous.