Antiseptic. When in contact with organic matter, it releases an atomic oxygen. The oxide formed during the restoration of potassium permanganate potassium oxide forms complex compounds with proteins - albumins (due to this potassium permanganate in small concentrations has astringent, and in concentrated solutions - irritating, cauterizing and tanning action). It also has a deodorizing effect. Effective in the treatment of burns and ulcers.
Potassium permanganate ability to neutralize some poisons underlies the use of its solutions for washing the stomach with poisoning.
If ingested, absorbed, having a hematotoxic effect (leads to the development of methemoglobinemia).
The drug belongs to list No. 4 of the list of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors subject to control in the Russian Federation.