It is primarily used as a dietary supplement in sports nutrition and muscle recovery products. The compound is a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine and plays a role in muscle protein synthesis. It is often included in formulations aimed at enhancing muscle growth, reducing muscle breakdown, and improving exercise performance. Additionally, it is utilized in medical nutrition for patients requiring muscle preservation or recovery, such as those recovering from surgery or experiencing muscle-wasting conditions. Its application extends to animal feed as well, where it supports muscle development in livestock.