POTASSIUM PERMANGANATE 205 



stimulant to the tissues. A solution of permanganate of 

 potash is a deodorizer when in contact with putrid and 

 decomposing matter, but is not of the slightest value as a 

 deodorizer and disinfectant to premises when simply stand- 

 ing in, vessels, as frequently advised. There is no danger 

 from absorption of potassium permanganate when applied 

 to the body. , 



Uses IiderncH. — Potassium permanganate is occasionally 

 used in human medicine in dyspepsia and flatulence, for it:^ 

 antiseptic action, and in obesity. It is supposed to resem- 

 ble iron in its effects, and has been used in ammenorrhoea 

 associated with anaemia. Moor, of New York, has shown 

 that potassium permanganate is the best chemical antidote 

 for morphine or opium, chemically destroying them by oxi- 

 dation ; 10 to 15 grains may be given to dogs in 8 ounces of 

 water immediately after poisoning. Horses may be given 2 

 drachms of permanganate of potash in 5 pints of water. la 

 case morphine has been swallowed, solutions of potassium 

 permanganate should be accidulated with vinegar, or diluted 

 sulphuric acid, in order to form soluble compounds in the 

 digestive tract. After morphine or opium have been ab- 

 sorbed into the blood, it is said that potassium permanganate 

 is also antidotal when injected subcutaneously. It is diflSealt 

 to see, theoretically, how this can be the case, and practically 

 has been proven not to be so. 



Uses External. — Potassium permanganate is a valuable 

 antiseptic and deodorizer in solutions, varying in strength 

 from one-tenth of 1 per cent, to 4 per cent., and is used in the 

 treatment of sores, wounds, ulcers, abscess, caries, gangrene, 

 fetid ozoena, otorrhoea, and leucorrhoea. In the stronger 

 solution it is stimulant, as well as antiseptic. It is a useful 

 agent in stomatitis and sore throat, when applied locally by 

 means of a swab. The powder is employed as a caustic 

 upon ulcers. Potassium permanganate is one of the 

 best agents with which to sterilize the hands before operat- 

 ing. A saturated solution is to be recommended for this 

 purpose, and the stains may be removed from the hands 



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