The US Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, recently approved a generic version of florfenicol, called Paqflor [PACK-floor], for certain species of freshwater-reared fish. The medication contains the same active ingredient as the brand name drug, Aquaflor.

Paqflor, like all medically important antibiotics for animals, requires oversight by a veterinarian. It’s a so-called veterinary feed directive drug that is only available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian.

The FDA has determined that when used according to the label, any residue of florfenicol left in tissues of fish intended for food will not harm people. In addition, the FDA concluded that approved use of the drug would not result in significant environmental impact.