Vitamin K supplementation for cystic fibrosis

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Nutritional science
• Genetics

Background:

• Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder causing multiorgan dysfunction.
• CF can lead to malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin K, impacting coagulation and bone health.
• Optimal vitamin K supplementation strategies for CF patients remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of vitamin K supplementation in individuals with cystic fibrosis.
• To determine the ideal dosage and administration route for vitamin K in routine and therapeutic contexts for CF patients.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials.
• Searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Trials Register.
• Included trials comparing vitamin K supplementation to placebo in CF patients.

Main Results:

• Two small trials (32 participants) with moderate risk of bias were included.
• Neither trial assessed primary outcomes like coagulation or bone formation.
• Daily 1 mg vitamin K supplementation normalized serum vitamin K and undercarboxylated osteocalcin levels in one month.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence on the benefits of routine vitamin K supplementation in CF is weak, based on limited, short-duration trials.
• No adverse effects were reported, suggesting current recommendations can be followed.
• More robust research is necessary to confirm efficacy and guide optimal supplementation for CF patients.