API Fin & Body Cure Powder Medication, 10 Count

API Fin & Body Cure is a powder medication for freshwater fish. It comes as a 10-Count box of pre-measured packets (model 17P). API positions it as first-aid for common bacterial diseases in tropical fish, both internal and external.

What it treats

• Fin and tail rot
• Body slime and eye cloud
• Open red sores
• Gill disease
• Hemorrhagic septicemia
• Cotton mouth fungus, per API’s description

How to use it

API’s directions say to use it daily for four days when symptoms of bacterial disease appear. Remove carbon from the filter during treatment, since carbon strips medication out of the water. API says the medication will not harm the biological filter, but still watch ammonia during treatment.

Water color

The powder causes slight discoloration of the water. API notes activated charcoal fixes this after the course ends; refit carbon such as Black Diamond activated carbon and do a partial water change.

Freshwater only

This product is for freshwater aquarium use only. Do not use it in saltwater tanks.

Finding the cause

Bacterial infections usually follow poor water quality, injury or stress. Test ammonia, nitrite and nitrate, check the heater and look for aggressive tankmates. Treating the fish without fixing the cause invites a repeat. A hospital tank is the cleanest option if only one fish is sick, as it keeps medication away from plants and shrimp.

Supportive care

• Keep the tank warm and stable.
• Add extra aeration during treatment.
• Feed lightly so waste does not build up.

Listings

API sells the same 10-count box under two listings; both are model 17P. Pick whichever is available.

For ich, which is a parasite rather than bacteria, use a dedicated treatment like API Liquid Super Ick Cure instead.

Store unopened packets in a dry cupboard, away from humidity, and keep the box out of reach of children and pets. Note the date you started treatment so you can track progress and know when to refit carbon.