menadiol

Menadiol is a synthetic, water-soluble analog of vitamin K3 (menadione). It serves as a precursor to the active form of vitamin K, which acts as an essential cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX). This enzyme facilitates the posttranslational gamma-carboxylation of glutamic acid residues in various vitamin K-dependent proteins, including blood coagulation factors (II, VII, IX, and X) and bone-related proteins such as osteocalcin and matrix Gla protein (MGP). Due to its water solubility, menadiol is particularly indicated for individuals with fat malabsorption conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or biliary obstruction, who cannot absorb naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamin K. It has been evaluated in Phase 3 clinical trials for its ability to improve bone mineral density and markers of bone formation in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Brand names

SynkavitMenadiol Phosphate

Other names

menadiol diphosphatemenadiol sodium phosphatevitamin K32-methylnaphthalene-1,4-diol