Used primarily in veterinary medicine as an antimicrobial agent, especially in poultry and livestock to prevent and treat bacterial infections such as salmonellosis and colibacillosis. It is effective against a range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Due to concerns over residue accumulation and potential carcinogenicity, its use has been banned or restricted in many countries, particularly in food-producing animals. It may still be used in some regions under strict regulatory oversight, often in combination with other drugs to enhance efficacy. Not approved for human use.