Phytomenadione should be taken exactly as you have been directed by your doctor.
If you have been given tablets, chew or suck them to allow them to dissolve slowly in your mouth before you swallow.
If you have been given capsules for your baby, cut the tip off the capsule and squeeze the liquid into your baby's mouth.
About phytomenadione
Type of medicine
Vitamin K
Used for
To treat bleeding caused by low blood clotting factors To prevent deficiency of vitamin K in newborn babies
Also called
Konakion® MM, Konakion® MM Paediatric, Neokay®
Available as
Tablets, liquid-filled capsules and injection
Phytomenadione (vitamin K) is essential for blood clotting and in aiding the formation of bones. It is used as an antidote to prevent bleeding if too high a dose of an anticoagulant medicine such as warfarin has been taken.
Natural sources of vitamin K are found in leafy green vegetables such as cabbage and spinach. It is also present in avocado, meat, cow's milk, egg-yolk, and some cereals.
Newborn babies are given phytomenadione to prevent bleeding due to a lack of vitamin K (which can occur during the first weeks of a baby's life). Phytomenadione is given to babies by an injection, or by a liquid which is swallowed.
Before taking phytomenadione
Before taking phytomenadione make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take phytomenadione
Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you have been given tablets, chew or suck them to allow the tablets to dissolve slowly in your mouth before swallowing.
If you have been given capsules for your baby, cut the tip off the capsule and squeeze the liquid into your baby's mouth. Throw away the empty capsule. If your baby spits out the liquid or is sick within the next 3 hours, give another dose.
Getting the most from your treatment
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can phytomenadione cause problems?
This medicine is unlikely to cause any side effects. If however you experience any symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store phytomenadione
Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
References
British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
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