Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents. Its sulfone and carboxylic acid functional groups make it valuable for forming esters, amides, and other derivatives that exhibit biological activity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship studies due to its polar, metabolically stable side chain. Also utilized in the preparation of prodrugs where enhanced solubility or targeted delivery is required.