Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of β-adrenergic receptor agonists like salbutamol and terbutaline. These drugs are widely used in the treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions due to their bronchodilator effects. The chiral center in the molecule is crucial for biological activity, making the (S)-enantiomer especially valuable in ensuring high selectivity and efficacy in the final drug product. It is also employed in the preparation of other amine-containing bioactive molecules where a protected amine and a chiral backbone are required.