Vasopressor Converter
Convert vasopressor doses between mcg/kg/min, mg/hr, and mL/hr.
Calculator
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Why use it
Unit conversion errors for vasopressors are among the most dangerous medication errors in critical care. This tool standardizes dose communication and calculation.
About
Converts vasopressor/inotrope infusion rates between clinical dose units. Covers norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, dobutamine, phenylephrine, and vasopressin. Essential for ICU and emergency settings.
When to use
- Initiating or titrating vasopressor infusions in ICU/ED
- Converting between mcg/kg/min and mL/hr for pump programming
- Cross-checking orders when changing concentrations or patient weight
- Teaching and cross-unit handoffs
Formula
mL/hr = (Dose_mcg_kg_min × Weight_kg × 60) / Concentration_mcg_mL
mg/hr = Dose_mcg_kg_min × Weight_kg × 60 / 1000
mcg/kg/min = (mL/hr × Concentration_mcg_mL) / (Weight_kg × 60)
Pearls & pitfalls
- Standard concentrations vary by institution — always verify your pharmacy preparation.
- Norepinephrine: typical concentrations 4 mg/250 mL (16 mcg/mL) or 8 mg/250 mL (32 mcg/mL).
- Dopamine: typically 400 mg/250 mL (1600 mcg/mL) or 200 mg/250 mL (800 mcg/mL).
- Vasopressin is dosed in units/hr, not mcg/kg/min.
- Epinephrine and norepinephrine: dose ≥0.25 mcg/kg/min is considered high-dose vasopressor support.
Next steps
Program infusion pump with calculated mL/hr. Always verify drug, concentration, and patient weight at bedside before starting or adjusting infusion.
Evidence
Derived from standard critical care pharmacology references and ASHP guidelines.