Dexdor (Dexmedetomidine) Infusion Calculator
Calculate infusion rates from weight-based dosing targets.
What this Dexdor dosing calculator does
This tool converts a weight-based Dexdor target dose (mcg/kg/hour) into a pump rate (mL/hour) using your final prepared concentration. It also estimates how long a syringe or bag will last and can optionally calculate a loading infusion rate when needed.
Dexdor (dexmedetomidine) is commonly titrated to sedation goals, so dose calculations are repeated often during care. A clear calculator helps reduce arithmetic mistakes and speeds up double-checking.
Core formula used
Maintenance infusion
Total mcg/hour = weight (kg) × target dose (mcg/kg/hour)
mL/hour = total mcg/hour ÷ concentration (mcg/mL)
Optional loading infusion
Loading mcg = weight (kg) × loading dose (mcg/kg)
Loading mL = loading mcg ÷ concentration (mcg/mL)
Loading rate (mL/hour) = loading mL ÷ (loading time in hours)
How to use this page
- Enter an accurate weight in kilograms.
- Set your target maintenance dose in mcg/kg/hour.
- Confirm the prepared concentration in mcg/mL.
- Click Calculate and review infusion rate output.
- If using a loading dose, enter loading values and recalculate.
Typical clinical workflow tips
1) Confirm concentration first
Most input errors come from concentration mismatch. Before programming the pump, verify dilution label, concentration units, and the order.
2) Round thoughtfully
Pumps may be programmed to one decimal place. This calculator shows unrounded values plus practical rounded values to support bedside use.
3) Recalculate after dose titration
If target dose changes, recalculate immediately rather than mentally scaling. This reduces risk during rapid adjustments.
Example scenario
If a 70 kg patient has a target dose of 0.4 mcg/kg/hour and concentration is 4 mcg/mL:
- Total required drug per hour = 70 × 0.4 = 28 mcg/hour
- Infusion rate = 28 ÷ 4 = 7.0 mL/hour
If the syringe volume is 50 mL, estimated duration is about 50 ÷ 7.0 = 7.1 hours.
Important safety reminders
- Use this calculator as a math aid, not as a prescribing tool.
- Follow local ICU/anesthesia protocols for dose ranges and monitoring.
- Check heart rate, blood pressure, and sedation targets during titration.
- Perform independent double-checks for high-alert medications.
- For pediatric, renal/hepatic, or complex scenarios, seek specialist guidance.
This content is educational and not a substitute for professional medical judgment.