Used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, meningitis, and septicemia. Effective against both gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria. Often administered in hospital settings via injection when oral antibiotics are not suitable. Commonly used in patients with weakened immune systems or in severe infection cases. Also used in combination with other antibiotics for broader coverage. Plays a key role in empirical therapy before the specific pathogen is identified.