What are common units for vasopressor titration?

Most vasopressors like Norepinephrine and Dopamine are titrated in micrograms per kilogram per minute (mcg/kg/min).

MédicoDoctorCritical Care Nurse

Vasopressor Infusion Calculator

Calculate infusion rates for vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine, dopamine) to manage blood pressure in critically ill patients.

Vasopressors are potent medications used in the ICU and ER to increase blood pressure and improve organ perfusion in patients with shock. Because these drugs have a very narrow therapeutic window and immediate physiological effects, they are almost always administered as continuous weight-based infusions (e.g., mcg/kg/min). Precision is vital, as small changes in the infusion rate can lead to significant changes in hemodynamics. This calculator helps clinicians bridge the gap between an ordered dose and the required pump setting in mL/hr, accounting for the drug's concentration in the IV bag and the patient's weight.

Drug (label only)

Weight (kg) (kg)

Dose

Typical units: mcg/kg/min

Dose unit

Drug amount in bag (mg) (mg)

Bag volume (mL) (mL)

Result

26.25 mL/hr

Infusion rate: 26.25 mL/hr for Norepinephrine

Drug (label only)Norepinephrine

Weight (kg)70 kg

Target dose7 mcg/min

Concentration16 mcg/mL

Drug selector is informational; calculation uses entered concentration.

Medical Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Cómo funciona

The tool calculates the concentration of the solution (Total mg / Total mL). It then uses the patient's weight and the target mcg/kg/min dose to determine the total micrograms per minute required. Finally, it converts this to milliliters per hour for pump programming.

Fórmula de cálculo

Rate (mL/hr) = [Dose (mcg/kg/min) × Weight (kg) × 60] / Concentration (mcg/mL)

Calculation Examples

1. **Norepi**: 70kg patient, 0.1 mcg/kg/min dose. Bag is 4mg in 250mL (16 mcg/mL). Rate = (0.1 * 70 * 60) / 16 = **26.3 mL/hr**.

Why use this tool in your daily life?

Titration is a delicate balance. This service provides the mathematical precision required to manage critically ill patients safely, ensuring that your hemodynamic interventions are exactly what the patient needs.