Kordon Permoxyn can be useful to the fish keeper as a control and treatment in eliminating a wide range of external diseases and parasites infecting freshwater aquarium and pond fishes, including those caused by protozoans such as Chilodonella, Costia, and Trichodina, by monogenean trematode flukes Dactylogyrus gill flukes and Gyrodactylus skin flukes, by fish lice Argulus, and by anchor worms Lernaea.   

Kordon  Permoxyn can be helpful as a supportive treatment in reducing and assisting in the healing process of bacterial diseases such as gill disease Flavobacterium and skin ulcers Furunculosis and Hemorrhagic septicemia. 

In more concentrated amounts in the water Kordon Permoxyn can be used as a bath or dip to eliminate external parasites from fishes. 

However, Kordon Permoxyn needs to be used correctly, because when used incorrectly treatments can be dangerous for the fish.  A clear understanding of how to use potassium permanganate properly in water containing fish is needed before its use.  

Kordon Permoxyn suppresses photosynthesis in plants and reduces algae abundance in the water, thereby helping increase oxygen levels in the aquarium, particularly at night  In this process Kordon Permoxyn reduces biological oxygen demand, and improves water quality and clarity. 

High levels of dissolved organics can interfere in the normal health and growth rate of aquatic animals.  Kordon Permoxyn is a quick and sure method to reduce dangerous high organic levels in freshwater aquariums and ponds.  It can be used as a special-purpose freshwater conditioner for aquariums and ponds, because of its ability to improve water quality by oxidation of excessive dissolved and suspended organics.  The chronic presence of excessive dissolved organics in the water promotes the growth of potential disease-causing bacteria and can damage the delicate gills of fishes.

Kordon Permoxyn inactivates treatments that use formalin or formalin in a formalin/malachite green product.   In turn -- by the use of regular doses of Kordon's AmQuel or AmQuel+ -- Kordon Permoxyn itself can be immediately deactivated.  With this versatility in uses, Kordon Permoxyn provides a helpful product for the knowledgeable fish keeper to have handy to apply whenever needed.

SPECIFICATIONS
Contains premium quality Potassium Permanganate KMn04, U.S.P. grade in 3.84% solution.

MODE OF ACTION
Kordon Permoxyn is a strong oxidizing agent which readily decomposes in the presence of various chemicals. Its reaction with organic materials produces carbon dioxide. The process oxidizes various dissolved and suspended materials in aquatic systems.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Before using Kordon Permoxyn it is recommended that activated carbon in water filters be removed, so that its activation is not affected.  If it is desired to keep the nitrifying bacteria active in the carbon, the carbon should be kept in aerated water.

There are two primary levels of treatment to consider for using Kordon Permoxyn -- Standard Dose (A), and Standard Dose (B), both  for eliminating organics in the water, as well as exterminating disease organisms of fish. 

Standard Dose (A) is 1 teaspoonful (5 ml) per 10 gallons of water to produce an initial concentration of 5 ppm potassium permanganate in the water. When used at this concentration 1 2/3 fl.oz of Kordon Permoxyn will treat 100 gallons of water, 4 ounces will treat 240 gallons, 16 ounces will treat 960 gallons, and one gallon will treat 7,693 gallons. These treatments produce a concentration of 5 mg/L of potassium permanganate, which is a safe level for the survival of at least some of the bacteria in biological filtration, but is toxic to some fishes.  See the Kordon Article "Standard Dose for Liquid Treatments" for further information on dosages.  Standard Dose (A) used in water containing fishes is anticipating that about 65% of the Dose will be used in deactivating organics in the water, so that it is not toxic to fishes. 
 
Standard Dose (A) at a concentration of approximately 5 ppm (= 5 mg/L) in the water is estimated to be the concentration needed for most aquarium and pond conditions that have an average level of organics in the water.  This treatment will remove those organics, as well as treat fish diseases.  The concentration of potassium permanganate in the water should be below 2 ppm (= 2 mg/L) -- in order not to be too toxic to the fishes.  Higher concentrations may be harmful to the fish's gills or lethal to the fish.

Standard Dose (B) would be one-third of Standard Dose (A), and would be an initial concentration of about 1.7 ppm per treatment.  (Note: The optimum treatment level is generally considered to be about 1.75 ppm in the water after organics are oxidized by the potassium permanganate).  This level of dosage is anticipating that none of Standard Dose (B) will be used in deactivating organics in the water, while maintaining the right level of ppm of potassium permanganate in the water to treat the fish.

What makes the level of treatment to be used complicated is that the dose needs to be adjusted depending upon how much organics there are in the water.  Standard Dose (A) may be the correct dose for treating fish diseases, because the potassium permanganate first oxidizes the organics, binding with them in the water.  This usually leaves less than 2 ppm of treatment remaining in the water, which is a safe level for the fishes, and an effective level in treating the protozoan, multicellular, and bacterial infections.  A dosage below 1.5 ppm in the water after the organics are eliminated is usually not effective for flukes, but may be effective for bacteria, protozoan and multi-celled parasites other than flukes.   A dosage above 2.0 ppm after the organics are eliminated will be toxic to some fishes, depending upon the species, their condition, and water conditions. 

Care must be exercised when using this product, whatever level dosage is used. The action of Kordon Permoxyn will proceed more rapidly under acidic water conditions and higher temperatures, while the action is less rapid at higher pH and water hardness. 

The problem in determining a correct dosage when fish are present in the water is that each aquarium is different in the amount of organics in the water.  Due to potassium permanganate's actions with the dissolved organic compounds in the water, it is best to be safe and determine how much potassium permanganate remains in the water that will be effective in eliminating the fish's infections, after the potassium permanganate has completed its oxidation reaction.  This can be done by observing what the color of the water is after treatment.  

A Quick Test For Determining the Extent of Organics in the Aquarium or Pond Water 
(a) Obtain two (2) clean glass vials or test tubes, into one (called the reference sample) add 1 teaspoon of deionized, distilled or clean tap water.  Into the other (called the test sample) add 1 teaspoon of the water from the aquarium that will be treated.

(b)  Add 1 drop of the 3.84% Kordon Permoxyn solution to both samples. Cap the samples.  Invert test sample a few times to mix.
 
(c)  Allow to stand undisturbed up to 24 hours. Depending on the concentration of organics in the sample, a change may be observed in the test sample within a few hours. The reference sample should remain a transparent purple.
 
(d)  Depending upon the amount of organics that there are in the water, the test sample will change from transparent purple to a diluted pink or rose, and then to brown, then to clear, depending upon how much of the organics in the water have been eliminated by the Kordon Permoxyn. 

If the test sample turns from transparent purple (when compared with the standard) to brown or clear, the amount of organics in the water system can be considered excessive.  An increased dosage will be needed to eliminate the organics and have enough potassium permanganate remaining to exterminate disease organisms.  Increased dosages and further tests will be needed to determine what the proper dose is to eliminate the organics and get the potassium permanganate in the water up to 1.75 ppm potassium permanganate, without exceeding 2.0 ppm. 

If the test sample remains unchanged, or if there is a slight change in the color of the water, then the amount of organics in the water are low.  If there is no change in color, Standard Dose (B) should be the correct dose as a treatment against external disease organisms on the fish.  If there is a slight change in color, what needs to be determined is the extent of color change to estimate what the increased dosage should be as an eliminator of the organics in the water, as well as a  treatment for fish without exceeding the 2 ppm level.  It may be that it will be determined that Standard Dose (A) is the correct dose, as was originally estimated for an average aquarium condition.

If there is no improvement by using Kordon Permoxyn in removing organics, other products need to be considered that are more effective in this regard, such as Kordon's AmQuel+.  However, AmQuel+ is not a disease treatment and another appropriate treatment needs to be used for this.  For flukes, worms, and other multi-cellular parasites see Kordon's Trifon™.  For single-celled infections and fungus see "Overview of Organic Herbal Preventatives and Treatments .   For chemical treatments see "Overview of Chemical Preventatives and Treatments".

Procedures For Dosing Aquarium or Pond
Once the level of organics in the water is understood, treatment can proceed using Standard Dose (A), Standard Dose (B), or a modified dose. 

To treat parasites (such as lice and worms) and bacterial gill disease --
         (a) Remove activated carbon and clean the filter. Return the filter to use without the carbon.
 
         (b) Calculate the actual volume of water to be treated, taking into consideration the displacement of water by sand and rock.

         (c) For bacteria and parasites (protozoans and multicellular infections) add the dose that has been decided upon as correct for oxidizing organics and treating fishes at 2.0 ppm or less, but more than 1.5 ppm potassium permanganate.  Do not exceed the recommended dosage.   Read and understand instructions above about keeping the dosage concentration at or below 2 ppm (2 mg/L) when fish are present.

         (d) As the organic materials in the water oxidize, the purple color will change to a pink or rose color and then to an opaque brown. When the brown color is observed, immediately make a partial water change, such as 25% of the water.  Note: it is highly recommended that when the treatment is performed, that substantial additional aeration is provided if there is not air or water movement in the aquarium.

If there is concern about whether there is sufficient oxygen in the aquarium water, it should be monitored during the treatment with an accurate oxygen test kit. This is especially important in aquariums or ponds in which excessive algae growth may be present.  (see Kordon's AlgaeQuel™ to get rid of algae in the water).  Discontinue treatment at any time that the fishes are demonstrating undue stress.  Kordon's AmQuel+ can be added to the water to stop the treatment immediately and eliminate the potassium permanganate from the water, and to remove all of the nitrogen compounds, including organics in the water.
 
        (e) For protozoans (such as Chilodonella, Costia, and Trichodina) and multicellular parasites (such as lice and worms) the proper dose of Kordon Permoxyn can be repeated every 2-3 days until the infections are exterminated.  This should not exceed a maximum of three treatments.  After each treatment a 25% partial water change should be made as instructed under (d) above.

For bacterial gill disease the proper dose of Kordon Permoxyn can be repeated for 4 consecutive days of treatments.  After each treatment a 25% partial water change should be made as instructed under (d) above. (Note:  The bacteria in bacterial gill disease are often described as being species of the genus Flavobacterium, but their classification is still being defined.)

         (f) After making a water change, add Kordon's NovAqua®+ to condition the newly added water. NovAqua+ or Kordon's Fish Protector (=PolyAqua) will assist in replenishing the slime coat on the fish which may have been removed during treatment. Return activated carbon to the filter.  

To reduce excessive dissolved and/or suspended organic materials in water in which there are no fish or aquatic invertebrates --
         (a) Remove activated carbon and clean the filter. Return the filter to use without the carbon.
 
         (b) Calculate the actual volume of water to be treated, taking into consideration the displacement of water by sand and rock.

         (c) Add 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of Kordon Permoxyn per 10 gallons of water. This produces a concentration of 5 ppm.  Read and understand instructions above about keeping the dosage concentration at or below 2 ppm (2 mg/L) when fish are present.

         (d) As the organic materials in the water oxidize, the purple color will change to a pink or rose color and then to an opaque brown. When the brown color is observed, make a partial water change, such as 25% of the water.  If the water does not change to an opaque brown, additional Kordon Permoxyn needs to be added.

Note: if there is not air or water movement in the aquarium, it is recommended that water movement, such as from aeration or a water pump is provided.  When needed, Kordon's AmQuel+ can be added to the water to stop the treatment immediately, and to remove/detoxify all of the nitrogen compounds, including organics in the water.

To use as a short-term bath for diseases caused by external protozoans (excluding white spot disease - Ich), crustaceans, and worms on fishes -- use a 10 ppm solution (2 teaspoons [10 mL] of Kordon Permoxyn per 10 gallons of water) for 30 minutes. It can be treated daily for up to 5 days of treatments.  Discontinue use any time that fishes show undue stress.

To use as a quick dip for diseases caused by crustaceans, such as Lernaea and Argulus -- use a 20 ppm solution (4 teaspoons (20 mL) of Kordon Permoxyn per 10 gallons of water) for 20 seconds.  Only use a dip when all else fails.  Keep the fish under close observation while they are in the dip.

At the end of treatments in the aquarium or pond -- do a 25% or more water change to reduce any toxins in the water.  To eliminate any remaining active Kordon Permoxyn in the water use Kordon's AmQuel+ or AmQuel.  One dose should be sufficient.  If the water is still colored, repeat the dose until the water is clear.  While using an AmQuel product be sure that there is ample aeration of the water.

To use as a bath to disinfect aquarium and pond plants, ornaments or substrates -- put the objects in a 10 ppm bath (2 teaspoons [10 mL] of Kordon Permoxyn per ten gallons of water) for 30 minutes. Rinse objects thoroughly in water before putting them in an aquarium or pond. 
 

STABILITY
Kordon Permoxyn remains stable in its container for a long period, if kept in a cool dark place, tightly capped and kept free from contaminants. The product is sensitive to light.

COMPATIBILITIES
Kordon's NovAqua®, NovAqua+®, Fish Protector TM, PolyAqua TM and Trans·Clear TM can be used 24 hours after treatment with Kordon Permoxyn, or after a partial water change of 25% or more.  

Compatibilities Between Kordon Permoxyn and the Kordon AmQuel Products
A quick way to detoxify organic compounds in the water, including ammonia/ammonium, nitrites, and nitrates is by the use of Kordon's powerful AmQuel+.  Also, by using the original AmQuel at its regular dosage the ammonia/ammonium and a slight amount of the other nitrogen compounds will be eliminated.  When either of these products is used before using Kordon Permoxyn, it needs to be kept in mind that any remaining AmQuel products in the water swiftly react with and deactivate the Kordon Permoxyn. 

Therefore, when using Kordon Permoxyn, for it to be effective it needs to be that any AmQuel product in the water has been removed.  If the AmQuel product previously used in the water has not been totally used up, it will continue to remain active indefinitely until organic compounds appear in the water that exhaust it.  If there is still active AmQuel in the water when Kordon Permoxyn is to be used, water changes will need to be done to eliminate the AmQuel product. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS
The use of Kordon Permoxyn (Potassium Permanganate) is restricted for use as a freshwater conditioner and treatment for nonfood freshwater fish.  Do not use in salt water.  It is not intended for Kordon Permoxyn be used as a medication or chemotherapeutic agent for food fish, as regulated by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

Under all conditions it is recommended to have adequate aeration in the water.  Special care must be exercised when using Kordon Permoxyn in a system which has chronic low levels of dissolved oxygen coupled with high organic levels.  Under such conditions the dissolved oxygen levels need to be monitored by use of an oxygen test kit or dissolved oxygen meter.

When Kordon Permoxyn is used in recirculation systems with biological filtration at the recommended concentrations, there will be a lowering of the nitrifying bacteria.   It is recommended that the biological filter material (such as activated carbon or filter pads) be removed while Kordon Permoxyn is being used.  

The product is incompatible with certain chemical medications.  Formalin and formalin in formalin/malachite green products (including Kordon's Rid-Ich+) will rapidly become deactivated in the presence of Kordon Permoxyn, In the presence of formalin, toxic formaldehyde gas is formed.  Do not mix or use Kordon Permoxyn with hydrogen peroxide.

The presence of Kordon's AmQuel® or AmQuel+®  in the water will immediately reduce or eliminate the presence of Kordon Permoxyn.  Its action can be seen by the elimination of the color of the potassium permanganate in the water.  The less discolored the water is, the more the potassium permanganate has been removed. 

The effectiveness of Kordon Permoxyn is reduced by sunlight.  Treatments in ponds are best done in the evening or during cloudy days. 

CAUTIONS
Keep Kordon Permoxyn out of reach of children.  For aquarium and ornamental pond use only.  Not for medical, or food fish use.

Keep Kordon Permoxyn away from the skin, because it stains skin a dark brown color.  In case of contract with the skin when using Kordon Permoxyn, immediately flush with clean water.  Wear gloves if there is a concern about the product staining the skin.

Good water circulation and aeration need to be provided when using this product. Kordon Permoxyn is a strong oxidizer.  It is toxic to certain species of algae, aquatic plants and invertebrates.  This product is non-toxic to most fishes when used as directed. The toxicity of Kordon Permoxyn to fishes varies with water quality, especially at higher levels of pH, temperature, and hardness.  Kordon Permoxyn is toxic in the water to some fishes at levels above 2 mg/L (= 2 ppm).  

In case of an accidental overdose to fishes, immediately dose with Kordon's AmQuel or AmQuel+, or dip in evaporated milk, followed by rinsing in water. These will deactivate the potassium permanganate.

The Merck Veterinary Manual http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/170404.htm has further information on the use of potassium permanganate as follows: Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) is not approved by the FDA but is also in the group designated “of moderate regulatory concern.” KMnO4 is used as an external parasiticide, fungicide, and bactericide. It is a strong oxidizing agent and“burns” organic material off the external surface of the fish. Overuse, particularly multiple uses within a short period of time, will kill fish. Use of KMnO4 no more than once a week seems safe for many fish. The concentration of KMnO4 used varies with the permanganate demand of the water. Permanganate demand is greater in water with a high organic load than in water with little organic matter. To determine the permanganate demand, a bioassay can be performed; the water to be treated is placed in small containers and KMnO4 is added in incremental concentrations of 2 mg/L. The correct concentration for therapeutic use will be the lowest concentration that
maintains a pink color for at least 8 hr. A practical method is to apply KMnO4 at 2 mg/L in the morning­if the color changes from pink to
brown or clear in <8 hr, the treatment should be repeated. If the concentration of KMnO4 required to maintain a pink color for at least 4 hr is >6 mg/L, then the organic load is excessive, and sanitation practices should be evaluated. In large production ponds, little can be done to
decrease the accumulation of organic material in ponds other than draining the pond, drying the bottom, and discing it. This is not done very
often, perhaps once in 10-15 yr. In smaller systems (<0.1 acre), mechanisms may be in place to facilitate cleaning and removal of debris.
KMnO4 has little impact on biofilters when applied at 2 mg/L or less.