Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its structure supports binding to neurotransmitter receptors, making it valuable in developing antidepressants and anxiolytic drugs. Also investigated for antiviral and antiparasitic applications due to its benzimidazole core. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize drug potency and bioavailability.