Can vitamin K supplements help stabilize INR in VKA (warfarin) therapy

  • Medical
  • Thread starter Chris Miller
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Therapy
In summary, the conversation discusses the potential benefits of vitamin K supplements in reducing dietary considerations when taking warfarin. It also mentions the importance of not altering medication or supplement dosages without consulting a physician. It is noted that vitamin K has other important functions and can have serious long-term effects. The thread is then closed to prevent further discussion on the topic.
  • #1
Chris Miller
371
35
TL;DR Summary
Can vitamin K supplements reduce dietary considerations in stabilizing INR on warfarin?
Can vitamin K supplements reduce dietary considerations in stabilizing INR on warfarin? I understand a higher dose of warfarin would be required. But isn't vitamin K useful besides as a coagulant, and wouldn't dietary sources of K impact INR less with a 100-200 mcg daily base of vitamin K supplemented?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Unless directed by a physician DO NOT alter dosages of medications or supplements. Altering supplements dosage or new use (which the health provider is aware of already hopefully)may be okay, otherwise it can cloud patient issues when taken during a meds introduction. Do not do it unless you are working with your provider. Period.

Also, consider that there are different forms of dietary Vitamin K that has to be factored in. And. Vitamin K has other very important functions.
This: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminK-HealthProfessional/
Warfarin works well. But it has serious considerations and some potentially nasty long term effects.
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman and BillTre
  • #3
PF does not give medical advice. So we are locking this thread against further comments
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre

FAQ: Can vitamin K supplements help stabilize INR in VKA (warfarin) therapy

What is INR and why is it important in VKA (warfarin) therapy?

INR, or International Normalized Ratio, is a standardized measure of blood clotting time. It is crucial in VKA (warfarin) therapy because it helps ensure that the blood is not too thin (which can lead to bleeding) or too thick (which can result in clotting). Maintaining an appropriate INR range is essential for the effectiveness and safety of warfarin therapy.

Can vitamin K supplements help stabilize INR levels in patients on warfarin?

Yes, vitamin K supplements can help stabilize INR levels in some patients on warfarin. Vitamin K plays a key role in blood clotting, and small, consistent doses of vitamin K can help reduce fluctuations in INR levels. However, this should be done under medical supervision to avoid counteracting the effects of warfarin.

How should vitamin K be administered to patients on warfarin?

Vitamin K can be administered orally or through diet. The appropriate dosage and method should be determined by a healthcare provider. Typically, low-dose vitamin K supplements are used to help stabilize INR levels. Patients should not self-medicate with vitamin K without consulting their doctor.

Are there risks associated with taking vitamin K supplements while on warfarin?

Yes, there are risks. Taking too much vitamin K can counteract the effects of warfarin, leading to a higher risk of clotting. Conversely, inconsistent intake of vitamin K can cause fluctuations in INR levels, making it difficult to manage the therapy. Therefore, it is important to follow a healthcare provider's guidance closely.

Is dietary intake of vitamin K sufficient to stabilize INR, or are supplements necessary?

For some patients, a consistent dietary intake of vitamin K through foods like leafy greens may be sufficient to stabilize INR levels. However, others may require vitamin K supplements to achieve the desired effect. The decision should be based on individual patient needs and made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Similar threads

Autism and Vitamin D during pregnancy
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Poll
Medical Are all calories equivalent for fat loss?
Replies
2
Views
5K
What colors and attributes could alien flora & fauna have?
Replies
15
Views
4K
Help with Chemistry Equations Quiz Questions
Replies
2
Views
3K
Civilization of millions of rings.
Replies
3
Views
4K
Writing: Input Wanted What Makes Great Lakes Earth So Geographically Unique?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Mastering Golf Club Making: Tips and Techniques for Better Performance
Replies
2
Views
7K
Was the Iraq War Justified by Its Outcomes?
Replies
5
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top