Healthy adults should consume between 90 and 120 mcg of vitamin K each day, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Your body primarily uses this fat-soluble nutrient to help your blood clot following trauma or injury. Vitamin K is also necessary for cell growth and healthy bone development. If you're not getting enough vitamin K through your normal daily diet, your health care provider may recommend adding a vitamin K supplement to your diet. Talk with your doctor about the safety of vitamin K supplements before beginning treatment with this nutrient.
Adverse Effects
People who use vitamin K supplements as directed typically do not experience adverse side effects. Mild, infrequent adverse effects may include diminished appetite, muscle stiffness, dizziness, sweating, skin discoloration, swelling or irritability. If you receive vitamin K as an injection, you may develop a temporary skin reaction at the site of treatment. Skin surrounding the treatment site may appear swollen, irritated or red and may be painful to the touch. If any of these adverse effects arise after you receive treatment with vitamin K, seek additional care from your medical provider.
Allergic Reaction
If you're hypersensitive to vitamin K, you may be at risk of developing an allergic reaction upon exposure to this nutrient. A vitamin K allergy may cause lightheadedness, shortness of breath, hives, itching, difficulty swallowing, chest tightness, wheezing, facial swelling or loss of consciousness. Such symptoms require immediate medical intervention. Without appropriate treatment, an allergic reaction to vitamin K may cause life-threatening health complications.
Drug Interactions
Vitamin K supplementation may not be appropriate if you are taking certain types of medications. Tell your doctor about any drug you are taking before you initiate treatment with vitamin K. Do not take vitamin K in conjunction with warfarin, a type of blood thinner. This combination of treatments may reduce the efficacy of the blood thinner, which may increase your risk of experiencing blood clot complications.
Contraindications
Depending upon your health status, vitamin K supplementation may not be right for you. Inform your physician of any medical issues you may have before taking vitamin K supplements. If you have a personal history of liver or kidney disease or are on dialysis, do not use vitamin K. Treatment with vitamin K may exacerbate the symptoms associated with your kidney or liver problems. Though taking vitamin K supplements is considered safe during pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking any drugs or supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding.
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