Used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, acne, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Commonly prescribed when penicillin cannot be used, it also treats infections caused by intracellular organisms such as chlamydia, mycoplasma, and rickettsia. In veterinary medicine, it controls bacterial infections in livestock and pets. Additionally, it has been used in agriculture to prevent plant diseases caused by bacteria.