A recent meta-analysis of the use of vitamin K revealed that all routes of administration do not yield equal results. The investigators concluded that intravenous and oral routes were equivalent and were more effective for excessive anticoagulation than withholding warfarin. Administering the vitamin by the subcutaneous route, however, was no better than administering placebo.

This conclusion was drawn from data published in 21 studies. Only one of these studies examined adverse events, so the risk of bleeding could not be assessed.

Dr. Garrett is a clinical pharmacist practitioner at Cornerstone Health Care in High Point, NC.