Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and antiviral agents. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating drug candidates with improved bioavailability and target specificity. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and central nervous system-active drugs due to its ability to cross biological membranes. Also utilized in the design of novel antibiotics where azetidine rings enhance metabolic stability.