Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) derivatives and other bioactive molecules. It serves as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, enabling the construction of complex lactone structures. Commonly employed in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system due to its structural similarity to neurotransmitter analogs. Also utilized in the preparation of prodrugs and in asymmetric synthesis for creating enantiomerically pure compounds.