(R)-(+)-2-Amino-3-benzyloxy-1-propanol is used as a reagent to synthesize beta-amino alcohols, compounds that are used as therapeutic agents to treat heart disease. (R)-(+)-2-Amino-3-benzyloxy-1-propanol is also used as a reagent to synthesize 15-membered macrolide antibiotics, drugs that are used to treat respiratory tract infections.