Used primarily as an antibiotic, it is effective against Gram-positive bacteria by inhibiting DNA gyrase, an enzyme essential for bacterial DNA replication. It has been used in veterinary medicine and in research settings to study bacterial resistance mechanisms. Also employed in cell culture applications to prevent bacterial contamination, particularly in selective media for mammalian cell lines. Its use in human medicine is limited due to toxicity and the availability of more effective alternatives. Still valued in laboratory research for its specific mode of action and as a reference compound in antimicrobial susceptibility testing.