About phytomenadione

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin which is essential for blood clotting. A lack of vitamin K can lead to unwanted bleeding. Most people can get sufficient vitamin K from the food they eat. It occurs naturally in many foods, especially leafy green vegetables such as cabbage and spinach, and also in avocado, meat, milk, and some cereals.

Newborn babies have relatively low amounts of vitamin K in their bodies. Because of this they can be at risk of bleeding, particularly during the first few weeks of life. To prevent this, they are given phytomenadione (a type of vitamin K) soon after birth. It is given either as a liquid for your baby to swallow, or as an injection. If your baby is given it by injection, one dose soon after your baby is born is usually sufficient. If it is given by mouth, your baby will be given one dose soon after birth and a second dose 4-7 days later. If you are breast-feeding your baby, your baby will either need a third dose at 1 month of age, or alternatively you will be asked to give your baby a dose each week for a total of 12 weeks.

People who take anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin can also be at risk of bleeding. This can happen if their dose of the anticoagulant is too high. Phytomenadione is given as an antidote to prevent bleeding caused by anticoagulant medicines. If this happens, it is likely to be given by injection in hospital.

Before taking phytomenadione

If phytomenadione is for your baby, it is important that the doctor knows:

• If your baby is taking any other medicines.
• If your baby has had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

If you are the person taking phytomenadione, to make sure this is the right treatment for you it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take phytomenadione

• Phytomenadione injections will be given by a doctor or nurse. Ask to read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. The leaflet will give you more information about phytomenadione.
• If you have been given phytomenadione capsules for your baby, open a capsule and give the liquid that the capsule contains to your baby. You do this by cutting off the tip of the capsule and squeezing 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. Your baby will require one dose (the contents of one capsule) each week for their first 12 weeks of life.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you have any questions about this treatment, ask your doctor or midwife (if relevant) for further advice.
• Keep your regular clinic appointments so your, or your baby's, progress can be monitored.

Can phytomenadione cause problems?

This medicine is unlikely to cause any side-effects. There have been some reports of irritation or allergic-type reactions, very occasionally. If you experience any symptoms which you think may be due to phytomenadione, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

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