Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of antidiabetic agents. It plays a role in the production of SGLT2 inhibitors, which are a class of drugs that help control blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes by promoting the excretion of glucose through urine. Due to its chiral structure and functional groups, it is valuable in constructing complex molecules with high selectivity and potency. Its derivatives are investigated for improved metabolic stability and pharmacokinetic properties in drug design.