Vitamin K Side Effects

Generic name: phytonadione

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 20, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Vitamin K.

Applies to phytonadione: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral tablet Side Effects associated with phytonadione. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Vitamin K.

Applies to phytonadione: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral capsule, oral tablet.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were dermatologic and injection site reactions.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Rapid and weak pulse, hypotension, cyanosis
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Facial flushing
• Postmarketing reports: Tachycardia, flushing^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Anaphylactoid reactions (IV route)
• Frequency not reported: Allergic sensitivity, anaphylaxis
• Postmarketing reports: Fatal hypersensitivity reaction^[Ref]

Fatalities and other severe reactions have occurred during or immediately after the parenteral administration of phytonadione. The majority of these reactions have occurred with intravenous administration. These reactions resemble hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis and include shock and cardiac or respiratory arrest. Feelings of uneasiness, flushing, diaphoresis, chest pain, tachycardia, cyanosis, weakness, and dyspnea may precede the cardiopulmonary event. These severe reactions are more likely with, but are not limited to, rapid infusions of undiluted drug.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have rarely included 'peculiar' sensations of taste.

Respiratory

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Dyspnea^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Death (IV and IM routes)^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Erythematous, indurated, pruritic plaques
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Profuse sweating, scleroderma-like lesions,
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Sweating
• Frequency not reported: Erythema perstans-like lesions^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Dizziness
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Unusual taste
• Postmarketing reports: Dysgeusia^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Hyperbilirubinemia
• Frequency not reported: Jaundice in newborns^[Ref]

Hyperbilirubinemia occurred primarily with doses above those recommended.^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Hemolysis in newborns^[Ref]

Local

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Injection site reactions (inflammation, atrophy, necrosis)
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Venous irritation or phlebitis (IV route)
• Frequency not reported: Pain, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Vitamin K side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer