Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a building block for introducing the butyrate ester group in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Commonly employed in alkylation reactions due to the presence of the iodide functional group, which is a good leaving group. Also utilized in the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other biologically active molecules. Its reactivity makes it valuable in forming carbon-carbon bonds through coupling reactions.