Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of β-blockers and other cardiovascular drugs. Its hydroxyl and amino functional groups allow for selective derivatization, making it valuable in asymmetric synthesis. Commonly employed in the preparation of optically active compounds where stereochemistry plays a critical role in biological activity. Also utilized in the manufacture of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules requiring high enantiomeric purity.