Vitamin K2 Supplementation and Vascular Calcification

Vascular calcification is the leading cause of death in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) in hemodialysis. The protein matrix Gla vitamin K dependent (MGP) is a potent inhibitor of the vascular calcification. Objective: To evaluate the effect of vitamin K2 on vascular calcification in patients on hemodialysis. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blind study will be performed. The study subjects will be divided into a control (1000 µl of saline) or treated group (1000 µl containing 2000 µg of Vitamin K2). Vitamin K2 will be administered three times a week intravenously at the end of each dialysis session. Blood samples for biochemical determinations and vascular calcification will be assessed before and after 6 months of treatment through carotid Doppler ultrasound.