Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anxiolytic and sedative agents. It plays a significant role in the preparation of imidazopyridine-based drugs such as alpidem and zolpidem, which act on benzodiazepine receptors for treating anxiety and insomnia. Its nitrile and chlorine functional groups allow for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating biologically active compounds. Also employed in agrochemical research for developing novel pesticides due to its heterocyclic structure, which can enhance binding to biological targets in pests.