Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of β-blockers, particularly in the production of (R)-propranolol and related cardiovascular drugs. Its chiral dihydroxypropoxy structure allows for selective adrenergic receptor blocking activity. The aldehyde group enables further functionalization through reductive amination or condensation reactions, making it valuable in pharmaceutical development for creating enantiomerically pure compounds. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis routes where stereochemistry is critical for drug efficacy and safety.