Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of antidiabetic agents. It serves as a key chiral building block 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 preventing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys. Due to its stereochemical complexity, it enables precise structural configuration required for high biological activity and selectivity in the final drug substance. Its acetylated form enhances stability and facilitates purification during manufacturing processes.