Medications
LGND Medi Defense™
Treats bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases
Very broad spectrum freshwater medication
Good choice when unsure of the disease
Price range: £ 10.99 through £ 97.75
- EUR: 14.61€ - 130.00€
Overview
Legend MediDefense™ is a broad-spectrum aquarium treatment developed to support fish health in both freshwater and marine. It is designed to address a wide range of common bacterial, fungal, and parasitic conditions that affect ornamental fish.
In many situations, selecting the correct treatment can be difficult, particularly when symptoms overlap or multiple issues are present at the same time. Rather than targeting a single cause, MediDefense™ provides a comprehensive approach, making it suitable when the exact condition is uncertain or when fish are affected by mixed infections.
While milder products may be appropriate for early or minor issues, more advanced cases often require a stronger and more complete solution. MediDefense™ represents one of the most intensive treatments within the Legend range and is intended for use when clear symptoms are present or when fish show signs of progressive decline.
Active ingredients: polymer-stabilized sulfathiazole (12%), malachite green (0.6%), polymer-stabilized nitrofurantoin (0.15%), acriflavine (2%). Inactive ingredients: excipients (85.3%).
Indications
MediDefense™ is suitable for the management of a wide range of bacterial, fungal, and parasitic conditions in ornamental fish. Many aquatic diseases present with similar visible and behavioural signs such as clamped fins, lesions, reduced appetite, or abnormal swimming. For this reason, a multi-target treatment is often the most effective approach.
Bacterial origin
Fins may appear frayed, eroded, or progressively shortened. This condition is often mistaken for physical damage caused by aggression, but is typically the result of bacterial activity affecting weakened tissue.
Suggested Treatment Period: Approximately 7 days or until visible improvement is observed
Special Considerations: This condition frequently develops as a secondary issue. It is advisable to evaluate overall fish health and check for additional underlying problems.
Associated with Aeromonas species
Characterised by red streaking in fins, localized bleeding under the skin, or inflammation along the body. More commonly observed in goldfish and koi, especially in overcrowded or unstable environments.
Suggested Treatment Period: Around 1 week
Special Considerations: Environmental factors play a major role. Improving water quality and reducing stress are essential alongside treatment.
Ichthyophthirius (freshwater) / Cryptocaryon (marine)
Appears as small white cyst-like spots resembling grains of salt across the body and fins. Fish may exhibit flashing, rubbing, or erratic movement due to irritation.
Suggested Treatment Period: Up to 14 days
Special Considerations: Consistency is critical. Interrupting treatment can allow the parasite lifecycle to continue and reinfect fish.
Bacterial infection
Often presents as pale or yellowish patches, tissue erosion around the mouth, head, or gills, and deterioration of fin edges. In advanced stages, cotton-like growth may appear, giving a fungal-like appearance.
Suggested Treatment Period: Approximately 7 days
Special Considerations: This condition spreads rapidly between fish. Isolation in a separate treatment tank is recommended where possible.
Fungal infection
Visible as soft, cotton-like growths on the body or fins. Commonly develops on damaged tissue or as a secondary condition following injury or illness.
Suggested Treatment Period: Around 7 days or until growth disappears
Special Considerations: Fungal issues are typically secondary. Identifying and addressing the primary cause is important to prevent recurrence.
Directions
Before Treatment
Remove all invertebrates, as they are highly sensitive to medication. Disable UV sterilizers and ozone systems, and remove chemical filtration media such as carbon or Legend PurgeXPro®. Ensure the aquarium is biologically stable, as poor water conditions are a primary contributor to disease and can reduce treatment effectiveness.
Dosing
Use 1 level measure (included, approximately 0.15 cc) per every 40 L (10 US gallons) of aquarium water.
Repeat the dose every 72 hours for up to 2 weeks or until symptoms have resolved. Treatment may be continued as needed within this period depending on severity.
MediDefense™ may also be used preventatively when introducing new fish to reduce the risk of disease transfer.
After Treatment
Once the treatment period is complete, MediDefense™ can be removed through standard activated carbon filtration. The product does not persist in substrate or filter media when normal filtration is resumed.
FAQ
Most medications I have used require daily dosing. Your directions say "repeat every 3 days." Is this correct?
Yes. MediDefense™ is formulated for extended activity in the water, so daily dosing is not required. The recommended schedule is one dose every 72 hours, allowing the treatment to remain effective while reducing unnecessary stress on fish.
Can I use MediDefense™ together with other treatments?
It is generally not recommended to combine multiple medications unless you are certain they are compatible. Mixing treatments may increase stress or lead to unpredictable interactions. For best results, use MediDefense™ as a standalone treatment.
How does MediDefense™ compare to other general treatments?
MediDefense™ is a broad-spectrum formulation designed to address bacterial, fungal, and parasitic conditions simultaneously. It is particularly useful when the exact cause of disease is unclear or when multiple infections are present.
Can MediDefense™ be used in marine aquariums?
Yes, it can be used with marine fish. However, it is not suitable for reef systems containing corals or invertebrates. For marine use, treatment in a quarantine or hospital tank is strongly recommended.
Safety
For ornamental fish use only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. In case of eye exposure, rinse thoroughly with water. Store in a cool, dry place with container tightly closed. Do not use for human consumption.