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MusculoskeletalCardiovascular

Vitamin K2 (MK-7)

A form of vitamin K2 that research suggests may support cardiovascular and bone health through calcium regulation.

Human Trials

12

2,847 participants

Risk Level

Low Risk

Monthly Cost

$15$45 /month

Price varies significantly by dosage (45-200 mcg) and brand quality

Quick Facts

Category
Supplement
Research Field
Supplements
Evidence Grade
B – Moderate
Risk Level
Low
Monthly Cost
$15 – $45
Human Trials
12

Typical Dose

100–200 mcg MK-7/day

Range

45–360 mcg/day MK-7

Timingwith a fat-containing meal (fat-soluble)
FormMK-7 (menaquinone-7) – longer half-life than MK-4
NotesMK-7 has a ~72-hour half-life vs MK-4's 1–2 hours – once-daily dosing is effective. Essential pairing with vitamin D3 to prevent arterial calcification. Found naturally in natto (1000+ mcg/serving).

For informational purposes only – not medical advice. See disclaimer

Research Velocity

+27%
28 publications in the last 12 months · major increase in publications
Low Community Interest
12 mentions
Sources:LongecityReddit
Updated 2026-03-16

Mechanism of Action

Vitamin K2 (MK-7) functions as a cofactor for gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, which activates proteins involved in calcium homeostasis. Research indicates it activates osteocalcin in bones to bind calcium and matrix Gla protein (MGP) in arteries to prevent calcium deposition. Studies suggest this dual action may help direct calcium to bones while preventing arterial calcification.

Overview

Vitamin K2 (MK-7) is a fat-soluble vitamin that research indicates plays crucial roles in calcium metabolism and cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that MK-7, derived primarily from fermented foods like natto, has superior bioavailability and longer half-life compared to other forms of vitamin K. The compound appears to work by activating proteins that help direct calcium to appropriate tissues - promoting bone mineralization while potentially preventing arterial calcification.

Clinical research indicates that MK-7 supplementation may improve arterial stiffness and reduce coronary artery calcification, particularly in postmenopausal women. Studies also suggest benefits for bone health, with some trials showing improvements in bone mineral density and reduced fracture risk. The typical effective dosage ranges from 45-180 mcg daily, with higher doses showing greater effects on biochemical markers of bone and cardiovascular health.

While generally well-tolerated, research indicates that vitamin K2 supplementation should be approached cautiously by individuals taking anticoagulant medications, as it may interfere with their effectiveness. The supplement appears most beneficial for populations at risk of vitamin K2 deficiency, including those with limited fermented food intake or certain gastrointestinal conditions that affect fat absorption.

Known Interactions

  • May reduce effectiveness of warfarin and other vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants
  • Potential interaction with antibiotics that affect vitamin K-producing gut bacteria
  • May interact with orlistat and other fat absorption inhibitors

Legal Status by Country

📍

Your country (United States)

OTC
✈️

Available without prescription in:

Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, United States

Australia
OTC
✈️Brazil
OTC
Canada
OTC
China
OTC
✈️Colombia
OTC
Germany
OTC
✈️India
OTC
✈️Israel
OTC
Japan
OTC
✈️Mexico
OTC
Netherlands
OTC
✈️Panama
OTC
Russia
OTC
✈️South Korea
OTC
Switzerland
OTC
✈️Thailand
OTC
✈️Turkey
OTC
✈️UAE
OTC
United Kingdom
OTC
📍United States
OTC

📍 = your selected country · ✈️ = medical tourism destination · Always verify current local regulations before travel.

Key Research

Where to Buy

Everspan may earn a commission on purchases. This doesn't affect our evidence-based ratings.

ThorneEditor's pick

Thorne Vitamin K2 (MK-4 + MK-7)

$22/moBuy →
Life ExtensionBest value

Life Extension Super K with K2 Complex

$14/moBuy →
iHerbBudget

Jarrow Formulas MK-7 90mcg

$10/moBuy →

Last verified: 2026-03-16