Changes of serum lipids in vitamin K3 (menadione) treated rats

The effect of high doses of vitamin K3 (10 to 50 mg/kg/day of menadione, administered intramuscularly) on the serum content of total lipids, cholesterol, phospholipids and triglycerides in male Wistar rats was evaluated. This experimental group was compared with another group that received intramuscular injections of 10 to 50 mg/kg/day of sodium bisulphite. Hypervitaminosis K3 was diagnosed by jaundice (due mainly to unconjugated bilirrubin) and by anemia which was particularly evident at doses of 40 and 50 mg/kg/day of menadione. These doses of menadione increased serum content of total lipids, phospholipids, and triglycerides but decreased cholesterol. The results show that overdoses of vitamin K3 alter lipid metabolism. The influence o participation of liver damage, fastening, as well as various endocrine and hematological changes are considered responsible for the alterations in serum lipids.