Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the production of chiral compounds for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It serves as a building block in asymmetric synthesis due to its enantiomeric purity, enabling the development of optically active drugs. Commonly applied in the preparation of alpha-hydroxy nitriles, which are precursors to alpha-hydroxy acids and amino alcohols used in cardiovascular and central nervous system medications. Also utilized in agrochemical synthesis for enantioselective herbicides and pesticides. Its reactivity allows for glycosylation and coupling reactions in fine chemical manufacturing.