Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin K (menadione) is a synthetic form of vitamin K used primarily to treat or prevent bleeding due to vitamin K deficiency. Vitamin K is a crucial cofactor for the synthesis of several clotting factors in the liver, including factors II (prothrombin), VII, IX, and X, as well as proteins C and S, which are essential for normal blood coagulation. Deficiency of vitamin K, whether due to malabsorption, liver disease, or use of certain medications (like warfarin), can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, both internal and external.

The use of vitamin K to control bleeding is strongly supported by scientific evidence, especially in the context of hypoprothrombinemia (low prothrombin levels) or vitamin K deficiency. Menadione (vitamin K3) is less commonly used now compared to phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and phytonadione due to concerns about potential toxicity, but it was historically used for this purpose. In the medical setting, vitamin K is administered to reverse the effects of warfarin overdose, prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, and treat bleeding disorders caused by vitamin K deficiency. The evidence base includes decades of clinical use, mechanistic studies, and controlled trials.

However, in cases of bleeding not associated with vitamin K deficiency (e.g., trauma or bleeding disorders unrelated to clotting factor synthesis), vitamin K has no proven benefit. Its use should be targeted to deficiency states or situations where vitamin K-dependent clotting factors are impaired. Overall, the scientific validation for treating bleeding due to vitamin K deficiency is strong, but not for all causes of bleeding.

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