Vitamin K4

Vitamin K4 is a synthetic form of Vitamin K, a group of structurally similar, fat-soluble vitamins that are necessary for blood coagulation, but also contribute to bone and other tissue health. Vitamin K4 is not naturally occurring and is typically used in animal feed and research settings.

Chemical Structure

Vitamin K4, also known as menadione, has a simpler structure than the naturally occurring forms of Vitamin K. It consists of a 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone core, lacking the side chain present in Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and Vitamin K2 (menaquinones).

Uses

Vitamin K4 is primarily used in animal feed to prevent hemorrhagic disease, a condition caused by Vitamin K deficiency. It is also used in scientific research to study the effects of Vitamin K deficiency and the role of Vitamin K in various biological processes.

Safety and Toxicity

While Vitamin K4 is effective in preventing hemorrhagic disease in animals, it is not used in human supplements or food fortification due to concerns about toxicity. High doses of Vitamin K4 have been associated with oxidative damage and cell toxicity.

See Also

• Vitamin K
• Vitamin K1
• Vitamin K2
• Vitamin K3