Menadione

Chemical properties

It appears as white crystalline or crystalline powder, being almost odorless and hygroscopic. Its color will change in case of light. It is easily soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol, but insoluble in ether and benzene.

Application

Menadione is a good hemostatic drug, its main function is to participate in the synthesis of thrombin, promote blood coagulation, can effectively prevent bleeding diseases, and also participate in the mineralization of bones. Menadione is also an important component of feed additives, an indispensable nutrient for the growth and development of livestock, and can also be used as plant growth regulators, promoters, herbicides, etc.

Uses

Menadione is precursor to verious types of Vitamin K. It is of industrial importance as an intermediate in the synthesis of phylloquinone, and salts of its bisulfite adduct are used as stabilized forms in the animal feed industry. Commercially significant forms are menadione sodium bisulfite and menadione dimethyl pyrimidinol. Used as a micronutrient for livestock and pet foods.

Brand name

Kappaxin (Sterling Winthrop); Kayquinone.

Side effects

Toxicity of vitamin K has not been well defined. Jaundice may occur in a newborn if large dosages of vitamin K are given to the mother before birth. Although kernicterus may result, this can be prevented by using vitamin K.