Phytonadione

U.S. Brand Names

Mephyton®

Canadian Brand Names

AquaMEPHYTON®; Konakion; Mephyton®

Mexican Brand Names

Konakion MM

Pharmacologic Category

Vitamin, Fat Soluble

What key warnings should I know about before taking this medicine?

Injection: Dangerous allergic reactions can rarely occur.

Reasons not to take this medicine

• If you have an allergy to phytonadione (vitamin k) or any other part of this medicine.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

• If you have any of the following conditions: Glucose-6-phosphate deficiency or liver disease.

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is routinely given to newborn babies.

• This medicine is used to promote proper growth and good health.

• This medicine is used to replace low vitamin K stores.

• Vitamin K may be a dietary supplement that is necessary in patients who have difficulty absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.

• This medicine is used to prevent or treat bleeding.

How does it work?

• Phytonadione works in the liver to prevent or to help stop bleeding.

• It helps you get enough essential nutrients in your diet.

How is it best taken?

Oral:

• Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.

• A liquid (suspension) is available if you cannot swallow pills. Shake well before use.

• Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.

Injection:

• This medicine is given as a shot into a vein or into the fatty part of the skin.

What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Take a missed dose as soon as possible.

• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.

• Do not take a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Short-term discomfort after use.

• Belly pain.

• Abnormal taste. This is usually reversible.

• Flushing. Wearing layers of clothes or summer clothes and cool environment may help.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?

• Check blood work regularly. Talk with healthcare provider.

• If you are taking a blood thinner, check blood work (prothrombin time/INR). Talk with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Pinpoint red spots on skin.

• Unusual bruising or bleeding.

• Any rash.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store tablets at room temperature.

• Protect tablets from light.

• Store liquid (suspension) in a refrigerator. Throw away any unused portion after 3 days.

• The injection will be given to you in a healthcare setting. You will not store it at home.

General statements

• If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.

• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).

• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.

Created: 2006-10-13 15:05:05.0

Modified: 2008-04-30 11:13:06.0

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