From the Research
No, statins do not inhibit the conversion of vitamin K3 to vitamin K2, as their primary mechanism of action is inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis, and they do not directly affect vitamin K metabolism. Statins like atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin are commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. They work by blocking the production of cholesterol in the liver. While statins can have various effects in the body, they do not interfere with the conversion between different forms of vitamin K.
- Vitamin K3 (menadione) is a synthetic form that can be converted to vitamin K2 in the body.
- This conversion process is not affected by statin medications, as supported by the most recent study 1.
- Vitamin K2 plays important roles in bone health and blood clotting. It's essential to consider the potential interactions between statins and other medications, including vitamin K antagonists like warfarin, as noted in 1. Patients taking both medications should be monitored closely by their healthcare provider to minimize potential risks. The most recent and highest quality study 1 provides insight into the relationship between statins, vascular calcification, and vitamin K-dependent proteins, but it does not suggest that statins inhibit the conversion of vitamin K3 to vitamin K2.