Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of active ingredients requiring high enantiomeric purity. Its hydroxyl and amide functional groups allow for selective chemical modifications, making it valuable in developing beta-blockers and other cardiovascular drugs. Also employed in the preparation of biodegradable polymers and as a building block in asymmetric synthesis. Its solubility in water and polar solvents supports its use in environmentally friendly chemical processes.