Vitamin K Injection

Form: Injectable solution
Category: Fat-soluble vitamin – blood clotting support

Indications

• Treatment and prevention of Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) in newborns and infants

• Reversal of anticoagulant (warfarin) overdose

• Management of hypoprothrombinemia caused by malabsorption, liver disease, or long-term antibiotic use

• Used pre-surgery in patients at risk of bleeding due to low prothrombin levels

Active Ingredient

• Phytomenadione (Vitamin K₁) – typically available in 1 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, or other strengths

Dosage & Administration

• Newborn prophylaxis: 0.5–1 mg IM shortly after birth

• Adults (warfarin reversal or deficiency): 1–10 mg IV or IM depending on severity

• Route: Intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), or intravenous (IV) — IV preferred in emergencies

• Dose adjusted based on prothrombin time (PT/INR) levels and clinical status

Mechanism of Action

• Promotes hepatic synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X

• Essential cofactor in the blood coagulation cascade

• Rapidly reverses prolonged clotting time due to vitamin K deficiency or antagonism

Side Effects & Precautions

• Common: Pain at injection site, flushing, taste disturbances (IV use)

• Rare but serious: Anaphylactic reactions, hypotension (especially with rapid IV administration)

• Avoid rapid IV bolus; infuse slowly under supervision if IV route is used

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Vitamin K or formulation components

• Use caution in neonates with liver impairment or suspected bleeding disorders

Storage

• Store at 2–8°C (refrigerated) or room temperature if label allows

• Protect from light

• Do not use if solution appears discolored or cloudy

Advice to Healthcare Providers

• Monitor coagulation parameters (PT/INR) before and after administration

• For warfarin reversal, combine with fresh frozen plasma or prothrombin complex concentrate if urgent reversal is required

• Oral vitamin K may be used for non-emergency corrections