1. What is the Global RPH Adjusted Body Weight Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the adjusted body weight (AjBW) using the Global RPH formula, which accounts for the difference between actual and ideal body weight.

Purpose: It helps healthcare professionals calculate a more accurate weight measurement for medication dosing in overweight or obese patients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( AjBW \) — Adjusted body weight (kg)
• \( IBW \) — Ideal body weight (kg)
• \( ABW \) — Actual body weight (kg)

Explanation: The formula adjusts the weight by accounting for 40% of the difference between actual and ideal body weight.

3. Importance of Adjusted Body Weight

Details: Adjusted body weight is crucial for accurate medication dosing in obese patients, as it provides a better estimate of lean body mass than actual weight alone.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the patient's ideal body weight (IBW) and actual body weight (ABW) in kilograms. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When should I use adjusted body weight?
A: Use AjBW for dosing medications in obese patients (typically BMI ≥ 30) where drugs distribute primarily in lean tissue.

Q2: Why 0.4 as the adjustment factor?
A: The 0.4 factor (40%) accounts for the proportion of excess weight that's metabolically active tissue.

Q3: How do I calculate ideal body weight?
A: For men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet.

Q4: What medications use adjusted body weight?
A: Common examples include aminoglycosides, vancomycin, and some chemotherapeutic agents.

Q5: When shouldn't I use adjusted body weight?
A: For medications that distribute in both fat and lean tissue, or for patients who aren't overweight.