Overview

Vitamin K is methyl napthoquinone derivative. It has a key role in maintaining a normal blood clotting mechanism and preventing a haemorrhagic disease of the newborn. If there is a deficit, intracranial bleeding can occur without warning, which can result in permanent disability and even death. In infants, intestinal bacteria are the main source of this vitamin, whereas in older children and adults, it is mostly derived from green plants. Breast milk is a poor source of Vitamin K. Because deficiency is potentially dangerous, it is the usual practice in maternity units to give Vitamin K by mouth or injection or many, if not all, newborns. It is particularly relevant if forceps or vacuum extractor is used. A new Vitamin controversy in 1992 was the alleged but unproven link between childhood cancers and injectable Vitamin K. American pediatricians have not altered their practice because there is not, as yet, a licensed oral Vitamin K product. In the UK, there have been official reminders of the need of Vitamin K at birth, and ideally a second and third dose, especially in babies fed human milk. Currently most newborns receive an intramuscular vitamin K injection soon after birth to prevent Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), a life-threatening condition that affects estimated 10-15 babies born in every 100,000. Vitamin K plays an important role in enabling blood to clot, and babies affected by VKDB may spontaneously bruise or bleed in the days and weeks after birth. Babies may also suffer internal bleeding, or brain haemorrhage which can lead to brain damage and death. The condition can be prevented by administering Vitamin K to newborns, Vitamin K drops means parents can choose not to have their baby injected, and instead of for them to have the Vitamin given orally using the oral drops. Vitamin K Oral Drops is a food supplement intended for new born babies. The drops contain phytomenadione (Vitamin K1).

Full Product Details

9781544669946

Table of Contents

Reviews

Author Information

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available