Drug Infusion Rate Calculator

Why use it

Prevents errors in critical infusions. Bridges the gap between physician dose orders and nursing pump settings. Essential for vasopressor, sedation, and insulin titration.

About

Converts weight-based continuous infusion orders (mcg/kg/min) to the pump rate (mL/hr) based on drug concentration in the bag. Essential for vasopressors (norepinephrine, dopamine, dobutamine), sedatives (propofol, midazolam), and other critical care infusions. Also supports mg/hr to mL/hr conversion.

When to use

• Starting or titrating vasopressor infusions (norepinephrine, dopamine, epinephrine, dobutamine)
• Sedation infusions (propofol, midazolam, dexmedetomidine)
• Any continuous infusion ordered in mcg/kg/min or mg/hr

Formula

Pearls & pitfalls

• Most common vasopressor concentrations vary by institution — ALWAYS check your bag label.
• Common: norepinephrine 4 mg/250 mL (= 16 mcg/mL), dopamine 400 mg/250 mL (= 1600 mcg/mL).
• For mcg/kg/min to mL/hr: mL/hr = (Dose × Weight × 60) / (Concentration in mcg/mL).
• For mg/hr to mL/hr: mL/hr = (Dose in mg/hr) / (Concentration in mg/mL).
• Always use standardized concentrations when available to reduce errors.
• Pediatric infusions often use the "rule of 6": 6 × weight (kg) mg in 100 mL → 1 mL/hr = 1 mcg/kg/min.

Next steps

Verify concentration with pharmacy and vial labels. Double-check pump rate with a second provider. Monitor hemodynamic response. Titrate dose per protocol and reassess.

Evidence

Standard critical care pharmacology. ISMP and Society of Critical Care Medicine recommend standardized concentrations and independent double-checks for all vasoactive and high-alert infusions.

References

1. ISMP. High-alert medications in acute care settings. — link