Sulbactam is primarily used as a beta-lactamase inhibitor to enhance the effectiveness of beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, against resistant bacterial strains. It is often combined with antibiotics like ampicillin to treat infections caused by beta-lactamase-producing bacteria, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and intra-abdominal infections. Sulbactam works by binding to and inactivating beta-lactamase enzymes, which otherwise degrade the antibiotic, allowing the antibiotic to effectively target and kill the bacteria. It is also utilized in treating skin and soft tissue infections, as well as in surgical prophylaxis to prevent postoperative infections.