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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

ItemValue
Infusion volume500 mL
Drops per mL (set)20 gtt/mL
Total drops10,000 gtt
Infusion rate250.0 mL/hr
Drip rate83.3 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.