💧 IV Drip Rate Calculator (gtt/min)
Drip rate (gtt/min) = volume (mL) × drop factor (gtt/mL) ÷ time (minutes) — this computes it, plus the equivalent mL/hr. Enter your values below — results update instantly, entirely on your device.
(1,000 mL × 15 gtt/mL) ÷ 480 min
count over 15 s and multiply by 4 to check
How the iv drip rate calculator (gtt/min) works
Drops per minute = (volume in mL × drop factor in gtt/mL) ÷ time in minutes. The drop factor is printed on the IV giving-set packaging (commonly 10, 15 or 20 gtt/mL for macrodrip sets, or 60 gtt/mL for microdrip). The equivalent flow rate in mL/hr = volume ÷ time × 60.
Example: 1000 mL over 8 hours (480 min) with a 15 gtt/mL set = (1000 × 15) ÷ 480 = 31 gtt/min, which is 125 mL/hr.
This is the standard manual gravity-drip formula taught in nursing. The drop factor must match the actual giving set in use — a microdrip set (60 gtt/mL) gives four times the drops of a 15 gtt/mL macrodrip set for the same flow. To check a running line, count the drops over 15 seconds and multiply by four. This calculator is an educational aid and is NOT medical advice: always follow your institution’s protocol, the prescriber’s order and the pump/set instructions, and double-check every infusion independently. Everything is computed locally in your browser.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate IV drip rate in drops per minute?
Multiply the volume (mL) by the giving-set drop factor (gtt/mL), then divide by the time in minutes. For 1000 mL over 480 minutes with a 15 gtt/mL set: (1000 × 15) ÷ 480 = 31 gtt/min.
What is the drop factor?
The number of drops that equal one millilitre for a specific IV giving set, printed on its packaging. Macrodrip sets are typically 10, 15 or 20 gtt/mL; microdrip (paediatric) sets are 60 gtt/mL. The right drop factor is essential — using the wrong one changes the answer proportionally.
How do I convert mL/hr to drops per minute?
Multiply the mL/hr by the drop factor and divide by 60. For example 125 mL/hr with a 15 gtt/mL set = 125 × 15 ÷ 60 = 31 gtt/min. This tool also shows the mL/hr equivalent for you.
How do I check a running drip?
Count the drops in the drip chamber for 15 seconds and multiply by four to get drops per minute, then compare it with the target this calculator gives. The tool shows the 15-second count for convenience.
Is this a substitute for clinical judgement?
No. It is an educational calculator, not medical advice. Always follow the prescriber’s order, your institution’s protocol and the device instructions, and verify infusions independently.
Is this iv drip rate calculator (gtt/min) accurate and private?
Yes. It uses the standard published formula, shows its working under every result, and computes locally in your browser — your inputs are never sent to a server, and the page works offline.