Vasopressor Infusion Rate Calculator (ICU Safety)
Calculate IV drip rates for critical care vasopressors (Norepinephrine, Dopamine, etc.) with automated high-dose safety alerts.
About
In critical care settings, vasopressor management requires zero margin for error. Calculating infusion rates (mL/hr) from weight-based dosing (mcg/kg/min) is a frequent task that carries high risk during emergencies. Errors in concentration or conversion can lead to hemodynamic instability.
This tool is designed for ICU nurses and physicians. It includes a verified database of standard concentrations and specific high-dose thresholds. If a calculated rate or entered dose exceeds standard safety protocols, the tool triggers a visual alert, prompting a double-check of the order.
Formulas
The infusion rate R (mL/hr) is derived from the desired dose D (mcg/kg/min), patient weight W (kg), and drug concentration C (mcg/mL):
Where 60 converts minutes to hours. If the concentration is in mg/mL, it must first be multiplied by 1000 to match the dose units.
Reference Data
| Drug | Standard Concentration | Typical Starting Dose | Max Safe Dose (Alert) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norepinephrine | 16 mg/250mL (64 mcg/mL) | 0.05 mcg/kg/min | 3.0 mcg/kg/min |
| Epinephrine | 4 mg/250mL (16 mcg/mL) | 0.05 mcg/kg/min | 1.0 mcg/kg/min |
| Dopamine | 400 mg/250mL (1600 mcg/mL) | 5.0 mcg/kg/min | 20.0 mcg/kg/min |
| Phenylephrine | 40 mg/250mL (160 mcg/mL) | 0.5 mcg/kg/min | 5.0 mcg/kg/min |
| Vasopressin | 20 units/100mL (0.2 units/mL) | 0.03 units/min | 0.04 units/min |