Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly in the production of fenoprofen and related analogs. Its structure allows for efficient derivatization to form active pharmaceutical ingredients with analgesic and antipyretic properties. Commonly employed in research and development of new anti-inflammatory compounds due to its reactive functional groups, which facilitate coupling reactions and molecular modifications. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis in medicinal chemistry.