Heparin Drip Calculator
Calculate heparin infusion rates, bolus doses, and maintenance parameters for anticoagulation therapy. Adjust based on patient weight, heparin concentration, and protocol requirements.
Step 1: Patient Information
Important Note
Heparin dosing requires careful monitoring of aPTT or anti-Xa levels. This calculator provides initial dosing estimates only. Always follow hospital protocols and consult with a pharmacist.
Step 2: Dosing Parameters
Dosing Guidelines
Standard therapeutic heparin: 80 units/kg bolus, then 18 units/kg/hr infusion. Monitor aPTT 6 hours after initiation and after any dose change. Adjust based on institutional nomogram.
Heparin Infusion Results
Infusion Rate Required
aPTT-Based Dose Adjustment
| aPTT (seconds) | Action | Bolus | Rate Change | Next aPTT |
|---|
Monitoring Guidelines
• Check aPTT 6 hours after initiation
• Recheck 6 hours after any dose adjustment
• Once therapeutic, check aPTT daily
• Monitor platelets for HIT (days 5-14)
• Adjust for renal/hepatic impairment
• Consider anti-Xa monitoring if available
Common Heparin Protocols
18 units/kg/hr
12-15 units/kg/hr
q8-12h
28 units/kg/hr (infants)
Contraindications & Precautions
1. Active bleeding or high bleeding risk
2. History of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)
3. Severe thrombocytopenia
4. Recent major surgery/trauma
5. Uncontrolled hypertension
6. Bacterial endocarditis
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Heparin dosing requires professional medical judgment, monitoring, and institutional protocols. Always consult with a healthcare provider for patient-specific dosing.
Consult Healthcare Provider