Introduction
Pharmacy and nursing staff often need to dilute a high-strength dextrose stock (e.g. D50) down to a lower target concentration (e.g. D10) for a specific final bag volume, using a standard C1V1 = C2V2 dilution.
How to use the Dextrose Intravenous Target Concentration Calculator
- Enter the stock (starting) dextrose concentration in %.
- Enter the target concentration you need to prepare.
- Enter the final total volume required, in mL.
- Click Calculate to see how much stock and diluent to combine.
Formula and Calculation Method
Stock volume (mL) = (Target % × Final volume) ÷ Stock %. Diluent (mL) = Final volume − Stock volume.
Visual breakdown
REFERENCE
Confirm final concentration matches the prescribed order before infusing
Why use this calculator
Dilution math is a well-known source of preparation error in pharmacy compounding. This calculator applies the C1V1 = C2V2 relationship directly and shows the stock/diluent split as a chart for a quick visual check.
FAQs
What is C1V1 = C2V2?
It's the standard dilution equation: concentration × volume is conserved before and after dilution.
What diluent is typically used?
Sterile water for injection or normal saline, depending on the institution's protocol and the intended use.
Can I use this for other concentration units, like mg/mL?
Yes, as long as stock and target are expressed in the same units, the same ratio calculation applies.