Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and antiviral drugs. Its fluorinated aromatic structure and stereochemical purity enhance binding selectivity and metabolic stability in active drug compounds. Commonly employed in the preparation of dipeptidomimetics for treating viral infections such as hepatitis C and other RNA viruses. The hydrochloride salt form improves solubility and handling during synthetic processes.