Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. It serves as a building block in the preparation of nucleoside analogs, which mimic natural nucleosides and interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Its chlorinated benzimidazole structure enhances binding affinity to certain enzymes and receptors, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for designing inhibitors targeting specific biological pathways. Also employed in research settings to develop new benzimidazole-based compounds with potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.