Propofol Infusion Rate Calculator
10 mg/mL (1%)
20 mg/mL (2%)
Calculation Result:
0 mL/hr
Understanding Propofol Infusion Rates
Propofol (Diprivan) is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic agent used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, as well as sedation in intensive care settings. Because Propofol has a narrow therapeutic index and rapid onset, calculating the precise infusion rate based on patient weight is critical for safety and efficacy.
The Infusion Formula
To convert a weight-based dose (mcg/kg/min) into a volumetric pump rate (mL/hr), the following formula is used:
Rate (mL/hr) = [Dose (mcg/kg/min) × Weight (kg) × 60] / [Concentration (mg/mL) × 1000]
Clinical Example
Consider a patient weighing 80 kg who requires a maintenance dose of 100 mcg/kg/min using a standard 10 mg/mL Propofol concentration:
- 1. Calculate mcg/min: 100 mcg × 80 kg = 8,000 mcg/min
- 2. Convert to mg/min: 8,000 / 1,000 = 8 mg/min
- 3. Calculate mg/hr: 8 mg × 60 min = 480 mg/hr
- 4. Convert to mL/hr: 480 mg / 10 mg/mL = 48 mL/hr
Standard Concentrations
- 1% (10 mg/mL): The most common concentration used in anesthesia and ICU sedation.
- 2% (20 mg/mL): Often used in situations where fluid restriction is necessary or for long-term sedation to reduce the lipid load.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Clinical decisions should not be based solely on this tool. Always verify calculations manually and cross-reference with institutional protocols and drug manufacturer guidelines before administering medication.