Sodium dichloroacetate is primarily used in medical research for its potential therapeutic effects. It has been studied for its ability to inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, which can help in managing conditions like cancer, lactic acidosis, and certain metabolic disorders. In oncology, it is explored for its role in altering cancer cell metabolism, potentially making cancer cells more susceptible to treatment. Additionally, it has been investigated for its use in treating mitochondrial diseases by improving cellular energy production. Outside of medicine, it is sometimes used in chemical synthesis and as a reagent in laboratory settings. However, its clinical applications are still under research and not yet widely approved.