Used in the treatment of viral infections, particularly as an antiretroviral agent against HIV and hepatitis B. It functions as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), interfering with the viral replication process by incorporating into viral DNA and causing chain termination. This compound is a key component in certain antiviral therapies, helping to reduce viral load and slow disease progression in patients with HIV/AIDS and chronic hepatitis B. Its structural configuration allows for improved selectivity and reduced toxicity compared to earlier analogs, making it valuable in combination drug regimens.