Used as an antibiotic from the aminoglycoside class, particularly effective against a range of aerobic Gram-negative bacteria and some Gram-positive bacteria. It functions by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells, which disrupts vital cellular processes and leads to bacterial cell death. Commonly employed in the treatment of serious infections such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, sepsis, and other systemic infections caused by susceptible organisms. Also utilized in veterinary medicine for similar indications. Its activity is limited to aerobic conditions due to oxygen-dependent uptake mechanisms. Often reserved for severe or resistant cases due to its potency, but use requires caution because of risks including nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and potential for bacterial resistance.