Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It plays a key role in the production of certain drugs targeting pain management and inflammation-related conditions. Additionally, it is employed in organic chemistry research for the preparation of complex molecules, often serving as a building block in the creation of more intricate chemical structures. Its hydroxyl and carboxylic acid functional groups make it versatile for further chemical modifications, enabling its use in various drug discovery and development processes.