URINARY EXCRETION PRODUCTS OF MENADIONE (VITAMIN K3)

Abstract

Radioactive vitamin K3 (2-methyl-C14-1,4-naphthoquinone) was administered to rats and the radioactive urinary products separated by paper chromatography and identified by ultraviolet absorption spectra and chemical analyses. Over the dosage range of 2.6 to 11.0 mgm. per kgm. of body weight, 2-methyl-C14-1,4-naphthoquinone was excreted, in order of decreasing relative concentrations as the diglucuronide (Product 1), the monosulphate (Product 2), and a third partially identified derivative of the vitamin (Product 3). Following the administration of vitamin K3, these products were excreted by normal rats, a dicoumarol-poisoned rat, and a guinea pig. The relative concentrations in the urine of Products 1 and 2 varied directly with the size of dose of vitamin K3. At these dosages, little or no vitamin K3 is excreted in urine as such.