This compound is primarily utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as an intermediate in the synthesis of various steroid hormones. It plays a crucial role in the production of corticosteroids, which are widely used for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties in treating conditions like asthma, arthritis, and skin disorders. Additionally, it is involved in the manufacture of certain androgenic and estrogenic steroids, contributing to therapies for hormonal imbalances and reproductive health issues. Its application extends to research settings, where it is used to study steroid metabolism and develop new therapeutic agents.