Vasopressor Selection & Dosing for Septic Shock

Guides vasopressor selection and dosing in septic shock. First-line: norepinephrine 0.01–3 mcg/kg/min IV. Add vasopressin 0.03 units/min (fixed dose) to spare norepinephrine and reduce dose when NE >0.25 mcg/kg/min. Second-line for refractory shock: epinephrine. Phenylephrine preferred when tachyarrhythmia precludes other vasopressors. Dopamine is not recommended as first-line.

Weight
Height
Clinical Guidance

BMI is a screening measure of body size, not a direct measure of body fat. The standard WHO categories are underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

BMI can overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older adults with low muscle mass. Interpret it alongside waist circumference and clinical context rather than as a standalone diagnosis.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.
Advertisement

How to Use

Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Guides vasopressor selection and dosing in septic shock. First-line: norepinephrine 0.01–3 mcg/kg/min IV. Add vasopressin 0.03 units/min (fixed dose) to spare norepinephrine and reduce dose when NE >0.25 mcg/kg/min. Second-line for refractory shock: epinephrine. Phenylephrine preferred when tachyarrhythmia precludes other vasopressors. Dopamine is not recommended as first-line. Use the vasopressor comparison result to inform your calculation.

Related Calculators

MAP Vasopressor Targets

Medical

Sepsis-3 Criteria

Medical

Steroids in Septic Shock

Medical

Frequently Asked Questions