Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

VITAMIN K - INJECTION

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aqua-Mephyton, Vitamin K

WARNING: The injectable form of this medication must be used only when the oral form cannot be used. On rare occasions, injectable vitamin K has caused severe allergic reactions, even during the first injection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

Uses

Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin which plays an important role in blood clotting. This medication is used to prevent and treat hypoprothrombinemia (low blood clot factor levels) caused by vitamin K deficiency.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection by a health care professional under the skin (SC, SQ), or if no alternative, into a large muscle (IM) or intravenously (IV), though very serious side effects may occur with the IV or IM route. Follow dosing instructions. Do not increase your dose, take this more often or stop taking this without first consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. You may notice pain, swelling and tenderness at the injection site for a few days. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following while taking this drug: chest pain, flushing, strange movements, rapid pulse, tightness of the chest, cramps. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: blood disorders, allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. This medication should be used as directed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially of: blood thinners (e.g., heparin, warfarin), aspirin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Vitamin K is commonly found in leafy green vegetables, meat, milk, egg yolks and tomatoes. Follow any dietary guidelines recommended.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).