Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antidiabetic and antiviral agents. Its strained oxetane ring enhances metabolic stability and improves pharmacokinetic properties in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry to introduce polarity and reduce lipophilicity, aiding in the optimization of drug potency and solubility. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules where ring rigidity and functional group orientation are critical.