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

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the role of vitamin K supplements in stabilizing International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels for patients undergoing Vitamin K Antagonist (VKA) therapy with warfarin. It is established that while vitamin K can influence INR, a daily supplementation of 100-200 mcg may help mitigate dietary restrictions without significantly impacting INR levels. However, any adjustments to medication or supplement dosages should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid complications. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding different dietary forms of vitamin K and their implications on warfarin therapy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of INR and its significance in anticoagulation therapy
  • Knowledge of Vitamin K's role in coagulation and its dietary sources
  • Familiarity with warfarin pharmacology and its interactions
  • Awareness of the importance of consulting healthcare providers regarding medication adjustments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of Vitamin K on INR stabilization in warfarin therapy
  • Explore the different forms of dietary Vitamin K and their bioavailability
  • Investigate the pharmacokinetics of warfarin and its long-term effects
  • Learn about patient management strategies for anticoagulation therapy
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for healthcare professionals, particularly those involved in anticoagulation management, as well as patients on warfarin therapy seeking to understand the implications of vitamin K supplementation.

Chris Miller
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TL;DR
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?
 
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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.
 
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PF does not give medical advice. So we are locking this thread against further comments
 
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