How do you calculate mean arterial pressure (MAP)?

For a normal heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP) is usually estimated with the formula: MAP = (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3, where SBP is systolic blood pressure and DBP is diastolic blood pressure. For example, with 120/80 mmHg, MAP = (120 + 2×80) ÷ 3 = 93.3 mmHg.

What is a normal MAP value?

In adults, a MAP of about 70–100 mmHg is generally considered adequate for organ perfusion. Many clinicians use a minimum target of 65 mmHg in critically ill patients, but individual targets may vary based on age, comorbidities, and clinical context.

Why is MAP more useful than systolic blood pressure alone?

MAP reflects the average pressure in the arteries over the entire cardiac cycle and is a better indicator of tissue and organ perfusion than systolic blood pressure alone. It accounts for the fact that the heart spends more time in diastole than systole.

When is the simple MAP formula less accurate?

The simple formula MAP = (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3 assumes a normal heart rate and a typical ratio of systole to diastole. It becomes less accurate in conditions such as tachycardia, bradycardia, arrhythmias, or when blood pressure is measured invasively from an arterial line with a very abnormal waveform.

Can I use this MAP calculator to adjust my medications?

No. This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never start, stop, or change medications based solely on calculator results. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional.

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) Calculator – Fast, Accurate MAP Formula

What is mean arterial pressure (MAP)?

Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is the average pressure in your arteries during one complete cardiac cycle. It reflects how well blood is flowing to vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, and heart.

While a standard blood pressure reading gives you systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) values, MAP combines both into a single number that better represents overall tissue perfusion.

MAP formula

For people with a normal heart rate and rhythm, MAP is usually estimated with this widely used formula:

MAP = (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3

Where:

SBP = systolic blood pressure (mmHg)
DBP = diastolic blood pressure (mmHg)

Example:

SBP = 120 mmHg, DBP = 80 mmHg
MAP = (120 + 2 × 80) ÷ 3 = (120 + 160) ÷ 3 = 280 ÷ 3 ≈ 93.3 mmHg

How this MAP calculator works

Single reading mode

Enter your systolic and diastolic blood pressure in mmHg.
Optionally enter your heart rate (bpm).
Click “Calculate MAP”.
The tool displays:
- Estimated MAP in mmHg
- A quick interpretation (low, adequate, or high)
- A note if your heart rate is very low or very high, where the simple formula is less reliable

Multiple readings mode

Switch to “Multiple readings” mode.
Add each SBP/DBP pair (for example, several home readings or a 24‑hour profile).
Each reading’s individual MAP is calculated and listed.
Click “Calculate average MAP” to see the mean MAP across all readings.

Averaging several readings reduces the impact of random fluctuations and white‑coat effect, giving a more stable estimate of your typical arterial pressure.

MAP ranges and interpretation

Typical adult targets used in clinical practice (values may vary by guideline and patient):

MAP (mmHg)	Category	Notes
< 60	Low perfusion	May be insufficient for organ perfusion; urgent medical evaluation is usually required.
60–69	Borderline low	Can be acceptable in some settings but may be concerning in others, especially with symptoms.
70–100	Adequate perfusion (typical target)	Common goal range for many adults; specific targets depend on age and comorbidities.
> 100	Elevated	Often associated with hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk over time.

These thresholds are simplified and for educational use only. Treatment decisions must be individualized by a qualified clinician.

When the simple MAP formula is less accurate

The formula MAP = (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3 assumes a normal heart rate and that diastole lasts about twice as long as systole. It becomes less accurate when:

Heart rate is very high (tachycardia, e.g., > 120 bpm)
Heart rate is very low (bradycardia, e.g., < 50 bpm)
There are significant arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation)
Blood pressure is measured invasively with an arterial line and the waveform is abnormal

In such cases, clinicians may rely on direct arterial line monitoring or more advanced calculations rather than the simple non‑invasive estimate.

Limitations and safety

This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only.
It does not diagnose, treat, or monitor any condition.
Do not change medications or therapy based solely on calculator results.
Always discuss concerning readings (especially very low or very high MAP) with your doctor.

Frequently asked questions about MAP

Is MAP the same as blood pressure?

No. Blood pressure is usually reported as systolic/diastolic (e.g., 120/80 mmHg). MAP is a single value derived from both numbers that better reflects average arterial pressure over the cardiac cycle.

Why do ICU teams often target MAP ≥ 65 mmHg?

In many critical care guidelines, a MAP of at least 65 mmHg is used as a minimum target to maintain organ perfusion in adults with shock. However, some patients (for example, those with chronic hypertension) may require higher targets, and decisions are always individualized.

Can I use wrist or finger devices to calculate MAP?

This calculator will accept any SBP/DBP values, but the accuracy of the result depends entirely on the accuracy of the underlying blood pressure measurement. Upper‑arm, validated devices used according to instructions are generally preferred.

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) Calculator

MAP Calculator

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