Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals. It serves in the preparation of adamantane-containing compounds that exhibit antiviral and neuroprotective activities. Commonly employed in the synthesis of rimantadine analogs, which are active against influenza A virus. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for modifying drug molecules to enhance blood-brain barrier penetration due to the lipophilic nature of the adamantyl group. Its hydroxylamine functionality allows for further derivatization, making it valuable in building complex bioactive molecules.