Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of clarithromycin, a widely prescribed macrolide antibiotic. It plays a key role in modifying the erythromycin structure to improve acid stability, bioavailability, and antimicrobial activity against a range of bacterial pathogens. Its transformation into clarithromycin allows for better oral absorption and longer half-life, making it valuable in treating respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and Helicobacter pylori in combination therapies.