(R)-4-Amino-3-hydroxybutanoic acid is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as a precursor for the synthesis of various bioactive compounds. It plays a significant role in the production of drugs targeting neurological disorders, particularly those related to GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) modulation. This compound is also utilized in the development of treatments for conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and muscle spasticity due to its structural similarity to GABA, a key neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Additionally, it is employed in research for designing novel therapeutic agents and in the study of metabolic pathways involving amino acids and their derivatives.