3-Phenylbutyric acid is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as a precursor in the synthesis of various drugs, particularly those targeting metabolic disorders. It is known for its role in the production of compounds that help manage conditions like urea cycle disorders by aiding in the removal of excess nitrogen from the body. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the manufacture of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. In research, it is utilized to study metabolic pathways and enzyme functions, contributing to the development of new therapeutic agents. Its applications also extend to the field of organic synthesis, where it is employed to create complex molecules for further chemical studies.