Pediatric Epinephrine Dose Calculator
Calculate safe epinephrine (adrenaline) dosing for children across all routes of administration
Patient Information & Dosing Parameters
⚠️ Newborn (<28 days) - special dosing applies
Current body weight of the patient
Intramuscular (into muscle) - anaphylaxis, severe asthma
Severe allergic reaction requiring immediate treatment
Recommended: for IM route ⚠️ Non-standard concentration selected
Important Warnings
Epinephrine Dose Calculation
Verify Your Dose
Emergency Dosing Quick Reference
| Route | Dose (mg/kg) | Solution | Max Dose | Indication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IM/SC | 0.01 | 1:1,000 | 0.3-0.5 mg | Anaphylaxis, Severe Asthma |
| IV | 0.01 | 1:10,000 | 1 mg | CPR, Cardiac Arrest |
| ET | 0.1 | 1:1,000 | 10 mg | CPR (intubated) |
| Nebulizer | 0.5 | 1:1,000 | 5 mg | Croup, Airway Obstruction |
*Newborn dosing (≤28 days): IV 0.01-0.03 mg/kg, ET 0.03-0.1 mg/kg using 1:10,000 solution
Solution Concentrations
1:1,000 Solution
Concentration: 1 mg/mL
Used for: IM, SC, ET, Nebulizer
Volume calculation: mg dose = mL volume
1:10,000 Solution
Concentration: 0.1 mg/mL (1 mg/10 mL)
Used for: IV administration
Volume calculation: mg dose × 10 = mL volume
Critical Safety Information
Always double-check concentration before administration
Wrong concentration can cause 10x dosing errors
Monitor for arrhythmias and hypertension
Have resuscitation equipment ready
May repeat anaphylaxis dose in 5-15 minutes if needed
EpiPen Quick Guide
EpiPen Jr. (0.15 mg)
For children 15-30 kg (33-66 lbs)
EpiPen (0.3 mg)
For children 30+ kg (66+ lbs)
Administration: Inject into outer thigh, hold for 3 seconds
Emergency: Call 911 immediately after use
Understanding Pediatric Epinephrine Dosing
What is Epinephrine?
Epinephrine (adrenaline) is a naturally occurring hormone and neurotransmitter that acts as a potent bronchodilator and vasoconstrictor. It's the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis and a critical medication in pediatric emergency medicine for various life-threatening conditions.
Routes of Administration
- •IM/SC: Preferred for anaphylaxis - rapid absorption, safer than IV
- •IV: Cardiac arrest, severe shock - immediate effect but requires monitoring
- •ET: When IV access unavailable during CPR - higher doses needed
- •Nebulizer: Upper airway obstruction - localized bronchodilation
Age-Specific Considerations
Newborns (≤28 days)
- • Higher doses per kg due to immature receptors
- • IV preferred over IM/SC due to poor circulation
- • Use 1:10,000 concentration for safety
- • Monitor closely for cardiovascular effects
Infants & Children (>28 days)
- • Standard weight-based dosing applies
- • IM route preferred for anaphylaxis
- • Auto-injectors available for home use
- • Lower maximum doses than adults
Emergency Protocol: In anaphylaxis, epinephrine should be administered immediately upon recognition. Delays in treatment can be fatal. Always have emergency medical services contacted simultaneously with epinephrine administration.
Anaphylaxis Management
- • Give epinephrine FIRST, then other treatments
- • IM route into anterolateral thigh
- • May repeat dose in 5-15 minutes
- • Position patient supine with legs elevated
- • Prepare for possible biphasic reaction
Cardiac Arrest (CPR)
- • IV/IO route preferred if available
- • Give every 3-5 minutes during CPR
- • ET route if no vascular access
- • Higher doses needed for ET route
- • Continue until ROSC or termination
Severe Asthma/Croup
- • Nebulized route for airway effects
- • SC route as alternative to IM
- • Monitor for paradoxical bronchospasm
- • Use with other bronchodilators
- • Watch for cardiovascular effects
Related Emergency Medicine Calculators
CRITICAL EMERGENCY MEDICATION DISCLAIMER
THIS IS A LIFE-CRITICAL MEDICATION CALCULATOR. Epinephrine dosing errors can be fatal. This calculator is provided for educational purposes and clinical reference only. It should NEVER replace proper medical training, clinical judgment, or emergency protocols.
BEFORE USE: Ensure you are trained in pediatric emergency medicine and epinephrine administration.
ALWAYS VERIFY: Double-check all calculations, drug concentrations, and dosing routes.
EMERGENCY USE ONLY: Only administer under appropriate clinical supervision or in life-threatening emergencies.
CALL 911: Emergency medical services should be activated immediately when epinephrine is needed.
NO GUARANTEE: This calculator provides estimates based on standard guidelines but cannot account for individual patient factors.
Healthcare providers must use clinical judgment and follow institutional protocols. Patient safety is paramount.