This compound is primarily used in scientific research, particularly in the study of steroid hormones and their biological effects. It serves as a selective inhibitor of 5α-reductase, an enzyme that plays a key role in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By inhibiting this enzyme, it helps researchers understand the role of DHT in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), androgenetic alopecia (hair loss), and other androgen-dependent disorders. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of potential therapeutic agents targeting these conditions. Its application extends to investigating the biochemical pathways of steroid metabolism and evaluating the efficacy of enzyme inhibitors in preclinical studies.