Widely used as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, this compound is effective against a variety of bacterial infections, particularly in cases where other antibiotics are ineffective or contraindicated. It is commonly applied in the treatment of typhoid fever, meningitis, and rickettsial diseases due to its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and reach high concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid. It is also used in ophthalmic preparations for bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and trachoma, in the form of eye drops or ointments. In veterinary medicine, it treats respiratory, gastrointestinal, and other systemic infections in animals. Despite its efficacy, use is often limited due to the risk of serious side effects like bone marrow suppression and aplastic anemia, leading to restricted application in many countries. It remains a critical option in resource-limited settings and for specific life-threatening infections.