Used primarily as a broad-spectrum antibiotic in the treatment of bacterial infections, particularly urinary tract infections. It belongs to the fluoroquinolone class, which works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, thereby preventing DNA replication and transcription. Effective against both Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria. Commonly prescribed when other antibiotics are ineffective or contraindicated. Also used in research settings to study antibiotic resistance mechanisms.