BD-1047 is a sigma receptor antagonist, selective for the σ₁ subtype. It has effects in animal studies suggestive of antipsychotic activity and may also be useful in the treatment of neuropathic pain.

More recent studies also suggest a novel role for BD-1047 in attenuating ethanol-induced neurotoxicity in vitro, and additional research is being conducted on this compound as a possible pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder (AUD)