Potassium permanganate is used to cure various skin diseases like infected eczema, fungal infection of the foot, and open and blistering wounds. It is used widely in different countries to treat a variety of skin conditions.
The common name for potassium permanganate is Condy’s crystals and it was developed in the year 1857 as a disinfectant. You will need a prescription from a doctor to receive this medication.
Read on to learn more about how it is used, the precautions you should follow, and also the side effects accompanying potassium permanganate.
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Table of Contents
What Is Potassium Permanganate?
Potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent with some disinfectant properties. It is used to cure various skin diseases like infected eczema, fungal infection of the foot, and open and blistering wounds. In some parts of the world, it is still used on a small scale for disinfection and also for washing fruits and vegetables.
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The potassium permanganate formula is KMnO4. It is mostly used on skin conditions that produce lots of liquid.
What Is The Chemical Formula For Potassium Permanganate?
The chemical formula for potassium permanganate is KMnO4.
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What Is Potassium Permanganate Used For?
Candy’s crystal is useful in the following skin conditions:’
- Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and impetigo
- Open and blistering wounds
- Tropical ulcers
- Infected eczemas
How Does Potassium Permanganate Work?
Permanganate kills germs by releasing oxygen when it meets compounds in your skin. It also acts as an astringent, which is a drying agent.
How Should I Take Potassium Permanganate?
Before using this medication on your skin, it should be diluted with water. Prepare the solution as directed by your physician or doctor.
Use only on the skin. To apply, clean, and dry the affected area, apply a small amount of solution to the affected area as directed by your doctor.
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What Happens When I Take An Overdose?
An overdose of Condy’s crystal, even over the counter, is quite serious and needs emergency attention. Be sure to call 911 or Otherwise, call a poison control center right away.
Taking more than the prescribed amount can cause serious side effects.
What Happens When I Miss A Dose?
If you miss a dose of permanganate, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at a time.
Can I Take Potassium Permanganate With Other Drugs?
Yes, but you have to tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription of medication you use, including all skin products.
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Do not start or stop any medicine without your doctor or pharmacist’s approval. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
Precautions
KMnO4 is a powerful solution that must be diluted before applying it to your skin. If it’s not diluted, it can damage your skin as well as the mucus membranes of your nose, eyes, throat, anus, and genitals.
However, this medication should be used only on the skin, it should not be swallowed. Avoid using it near your eyes.
If you’re using potassium permanganate tablets or crystals, make sure they’re fully dissolved in water before using the solution.
Wear a glove while preparing the dilution. hot water will make the solution dissolve.
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Also, tell your doctor if you have other illnesses, allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
What Are The Side Effects Of Using Potassium Permanganate?
It can cause irritation, redness, or burns if the dilution is not adequate. It may leave a brown stain on your skin and nails, which should fade after a day or two.
Might also leave a stain in your bathtub that’s hard to remove, which is why many people prefer to use it in a smaller basin.
How will I Be Monitored For The Side Effects Of Potassium Permanganate?
The nurse giving the treatment will assess your skin. If you are treating yourself and you have concerns, contact the healthcare professional who prescribed the treatment.
If you accidentally swallow the tablet or solution drink plenty of water, do not induce vomiting, and seek immediate medical help.
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Where Can I Buy Potassium Permanganate?
You can get KMnO4 in online stores like Walmart and eBay. You can also get it at laboratories and hospitals around your vicinity.
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How Do I Store Potassium Permanganate?
Store granules at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from heat and moisture. Keep this and all medication out of the reach of children.
Important Information
- Finish all of your medication as prescribed by your doctor. Don’t stop taking your drug or skip doses if you start to feel better. Doing so could make your infection last longer.
- Do not let anyone else take your medication.
- Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
- If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the potassium permanganate, call your doctor.
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