IV Drip Rate Calculator
Calculate the IV drip rate in drops per minute from the infusion volume, infusion time, and drip set type. It also shows drops per 10 seconds and the infusion rate to help you set the flow.
Input
IV drip set type
mL
Infusion time
hours
Result
Drops per minute
83.3gtt/min
In practice, adjust to about 83 drops per minute.
Drops per 10 seconds
13.9 gtt
Volume per drop
0.05 mL
Total infusion time
2 hr
Calculation breakdown
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Infusion volume | 500 mL |
| Drops per mL (set) | 20 gtt/mL |
| Total drops | 10,000 gtt |
| Infusion rate | 250.0 mL/hr |
| Drip rate | 83.3 gtt/min |
How it works
- Drip rate (gtt/min) = total volume (mL) x drops per mL / infusion time (min). When the time is entered in hours, it is multiplied by 60 to convert to minutes.
- Drops per mL is determined by the drip set specification; macrodrip sets are commonly 20 gtt/mL and microdrip (pediatric) sets are 60 gtt/mL. Always check the label on the drip set you actually use.
- For convenient bedside checks, drops per 10 seconds (drip rate per minute / 6) is also shown. Count the drops over 10 seconds to fine-tune the flow.
- Volume per drop is 1 / drops per mL (0.05 mL for macrodrip, 0.0167 mL for microdrip), and the infusion rate (mL/hr) is volume / infusion time (min) x 60.
- Because drops occur as discrete events, the result is shown with decimals. When adjusting the flow in practice, use the rounded whole-number drip rate as a guide.
- This tool provides general estimates only and is not a diagnosis or medical procedure. Always consult a physician for health-related decisions.
Reviews
Tell us what you think of this calculator.
Write a review
Found an incorrect result or a problem? Turn this on to report it.
- Home
IV Drip Rate Calculator