L-Ornithine lactam is a synthetic intermediate. It has been used in the synthesis of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, as well as signaling peptides.
Eflornithinehydrochloride, a specific and irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase enzyme, is a medication used for the treatment of African trypanosomiasis and excessive facial hair growth in women.