Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin K is well-established as an essential nutrient for the synthesis of several clotting factors required for normal blood coagulation. It is widely used in medicine to treat and prevent bleeding disorders associated with vitamin K deficiency, including in newborns (to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn), and in patients with certain medical conditions or on anticoagulant therapy (such as warfarin toxicity). Most of the scientific evidence and clinical usage pertains to internal bleeding or risk of spontaneous bleeding due to impaired coagulation rather than direct management of external bleeding such as wounds or trauma. However, correcting vitamin K deficiency can reduce the risk of excessive bleeding from any source, including external injuries. There is limited evidence for vitamin K's efficacy in managing acute external bleeding in individuals with normal coagulation, as standard care for external bleeding is typically direct pressure, wound care, and, if needed, surgical intervention. Nonetheless, in cases where bleeding is due to underlying coagulopathy or vitamin K deficiency, administration of vitamin K (usually as phytonadione, vitamin K1) is a scientifically validated therapy. The overall evidence supports its use in the context of bleeding linked to deficiency or anticoagulant overdose, but not as a primary hemostatic agent for external bleeding in otherwise healthy individuals.

More about Vitamin K (unspecified)
More about Bleeding (external)

Other ingredients used for Bleeding (external)

Other health conditions supported by Vitamin K (unspecified)

Products containing Vitamin K (unspecified)