[Detection of drugs on thin layers using potassium permanganate]

The authors discuss detection of drugs and other substances during thin layer chromatography by means of an aqueous solution of potassium permanganate. Ninety drugs and other substances were divided into three groups: a) strongly reacting, b) weakly reacting, c) not reacting. It was revealed that all compounds containing non-aromatic C = C bonds or oxidizable sulphur react very intensely. Other drugs containing readily oxidized groups react also.