Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anti-inflammatory agents. Its strained oxetane ring enhances metabolic stability and improves pharmacokinetic properties in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry to replace ester or amide groups, increasing bioavailability and resistance to enzymatic degradation. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize drug potency.