Potassium Permanganate is an antiseptic which is used for a number of skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections (like Athlete’s foot impetigo) and cleansing of blistered or oozing wounds and ulcers.
Potassium Permanganate is available as a 4% solution that may be applied to the skin or ulcers. Wash your hands before and after applying Potassium Permanganate.
To use this solution, you must first dilute it by adding 5 mL of 4% Potassium Permanganate solution into 2 litres of warm water and mix well. The diluted solution may be pink or light purple in color. Soak the affected area in the diluted solution for around 10 minutes, then dry with a soft towel.
This medication is for external use only. Do not consume it. Avoid any contact with the eyes, nose and mouth and sensitive areas.
Common side effects of Potassium Permanganate include irritation, redness, pain, burning sensation and stains in the applied area of the skin.
Common dosing schedule:
Potassium Permanganate may be applied once or twice a day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Potassium Permanganate may interact with:
In Hong Kong, Potassium Permanganate is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Potassium Permanganate in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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