Dehydroglaucine is primarily used in scientific research, particularly in the study of opioid receptors and their function. It acts as a selective antagonist for the sigma receptor, making it a valuable tool for investigating the role of sigma receptors in neurological processes and diseases. Researchers use dehydroglaucine to explore potential pathways involved in pain modulation, addiction, and psychiatric disorders. Due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, it is effective in in vivo studies aiming to understand central nervous system activity. Its application remains mostly confined to laboratory and experimental settings, with no current use in clinical medicine.