Vitamin K is used to treat and prevent low levels of
certain substances (blood clotting factors) that your body naturally
produces. These substances help your blood to thicken and stop bleeding
normally (such as after an accidental cut or injury). Low levels of blood
clotting factors increase the risk for unusual bleeding. Low levels may be
caused by certain medications (such as warfarin) or medical conditions
(such as obstructive jaundice). Vitamin K helps to treat and prevent
unusual bleeding by increasing the body's production of blood clotting
factors.
This medication is given by injection under the skin or
into a muscle or vein as directed by your doctor. If this medication is
given into a vein, it should be injected very slowly (no more than 1
milligram per minute) to reduce the risk of serious side effects. (See also
Warning section.)
The dosage is based on your medical condition and
response to treatment.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home,
learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care
professional. Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to
store and discard medical supplies safely.
If you are using a certain "blood thinner" drug
(warfarin), vitamin K can decrease the effects of warfarin for up to 2
weeks. Be sure to take your vitamin K and warfarin exactly as directed by
your doctor or pharmacist.
If you develop easy bruising or bleeding, get medical
help right away. You may need another dose of vitamin K.
Pain, swelling, or soreness at the injection site may
occur. Temporary flushing, taste changes, dizziness, rapid heartbeat,
sweating, shortness of breath, or bluish lips/skin/nails may also rarely
occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using vitamin K, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- blood disorders
- kidney disease
- liver disease
This product may contain aluminum, which can rarely
build up to dangerous levels in the body. The risk may be increased if this
product is used for an extended time, especially in people with kidney
disease. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of too much
aluminum in the body such as muscle weakness, bone pain, or mental
changes.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
Vitamin K passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to
harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before
breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug
include:
- "blood thinners" (such as warfarin)
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as prothrombin time, INR)
should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and
lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Vitamin K is commonly found in leafy green vegetables
such as spinach, collards, and broccoli. Follow any dietary guidelines
recommended by your health care professional.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from light. Discard any
unused portion from single use containers. Keep all medications away from
children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.