Dexmedetomidine (ICU Precedex) Calculator
Calculate IV infusion rates (mL/hr) for Dexmedetomidine in ICU settings. Supports standard and concentrated bags with range safety alerts.
About
In critical care, maintaining hemodynamic stability during sedation is paramount. Dexmedetomidine (Precedex) requires precise infusion rate calculations based on patient weight and preparation concentration. Errors in dimensional analysis can lead to bradycardia or hypotension. This tool converts the clinical order (mcg/kg/hr) into pump settings (mL/hr), accommodating both standard (4 mcg/mL) and concentrated (8 mcg/mL) admixtures. It includes logic to flag rates falling outside the typical therapeutic window.
ICU
critical care
sedation
infusion
nursing
Formulas
The infusion pump rate is derived via dimensional analysis:
RatemL/hr = Dose × WeightkgConcentrationmcg/mL
Logic checks ensure:
if Dose > 1.4 → ALERT
Reference Data
| Variable | Standard Range | Limit / Alert |
|---|---|---|
| Loading Dose | 1 mcg/kg (over 10 min) | Optional, often omitted to avoid hypotension |
| Maintenance Rate | 0.2 - 0.7 mcg/kg/hr | Max 1.4 mcg/kg/hr |
| Standard Conc. | 4 mcg/mL | Pre-mixed bags |
| Max Conc. | 8 - 10 mcg/mL | Fluid restricted patients |
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally 0.2 to 0.7 mcg/kg/hr. Doses up to 1.4 or 1.5 mcg/kg/hr may be used in refractory cases but carry higher risks of bradycardia.
No. Loading doses (boluses) are increasingly controversial due to hemodynamic side effects. This tool focuses strictly on the continuous maintenance infusion rate.