We recommend that all babies are given an injection into the thigh muscle in the first day of life as this effectively prevents VKDB in virtually all babies. Should you decide that you do not wish your baby to have any form of vitamin K supplement, it is important to discuss this with your GP or community midwife who can advise you of the actions to take if symptoms of VKDB appear.
The current preparation used for both Intramuscular injection and oral administration of vitamin K is prepared from an animal derived (bovine) source. There is currently no other vitamin K product licensed and available for use as an alternative. If you have reasons why you would not wish your baby to receive an animal derived product we are currently unable to offer a substitute preparation as there is no licensed product available.