Convert mcg/min to mL/hr

Displays default doses in Ordered & Available.

Formulas

First, convert micrograms per minute (mcg/min) to milligrams per hour (mg/hr).

D × 60 min 1000 mcg
  • D = Dose (mcg)

Then use the dosage formula to calculate rate.

O × V A
  • O = Dose ordered
  • V = Volume of dose available
  • A = Dose available

Example

1. Start an infusion of nitroglycerin at 10 mcg/min, then titrate to chest pain.  The nitroglycerin is to be mixed as 50 mg in 250 milliliters (mL) of D5W.  First, convert mcg/min to mg/hr.

  • Dose (mcg) = 10 mcg
10 mcg × 60 min 1000 mcg

The answer is 0.6 mg/hr. Then use the dosage formula. To complete the problem

  • Dose ordered (mg) = 0.6 mg
  • Volume of dose available (mL) = 250 mL
  • Dose available (mg) = 50 mg
0.6 mg × 250 mL 50 mg

The answer is 3 mL/hr.

2. Start an infusion of Levophed® (norepinephrine) at 4 mcg/min then titrate to blood pressure. Pharmacy has mixed 4 mg of Levophed® in a 1,000 mL bag of D5W. First, convert mcg/min to mg/hr.

  • Dose (mcg) = 4 mcg
4 mcg × 60 min 1000 mcg

The answer is 0.24 mg/hr. Then use the dosage formula. To complete the problem

  • Dose ordered = 0.24 mg
  • Volume of dose available = 1000 mL
  • Dose available = 4 mg
0.24 mg × 1000 mL 4 mg

The answer is 60 mL/hr.