vitamin K

vitamin K

n.

Any of several fat-soluble compounds that are found in alfalfa, hog liver, fish meal, and vegetable oils and are essential for the production of normal amounts of prothrombin. Also called antihemorrhagic factor.

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vitamin K,

n a fat-soluble vitamin found in leafy greens, beans, peas, oats, and whole wheat. Has been used to remedy deficiencies (including those associated with alcoholism, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, and ulcerative colitis), osteoporosis, and menorrhagia. Pregnant women taking anticonvulsants may need to supplement vitamin K to prevent birth defects. Contraindicated for patients taking warfarin and caution with cephalosporins. Also called
menadione, menaquinone, or
phylloquinone.

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vitamin K

a group of fat-soluble compounds which are required for the formation of prothrombin and therefore play a role in blood clotting. They are present in most green feeds and are not likely to be absent from natural diets. Failure to absorb the vitamin is a real risk in diseases in which fat absorption is defective, such as obstructive jaundice.

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vitamin K K deficiency

most commonly due to anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning in dogs, and less often cats.

vitamin K K₁

phylloquinone.

vitamin K K₂

menaquinone.

vitamin K K₃

menadione.