The Calvert formula
Total dose (mg) = target AUC × (GFR + 25) [1]. The 25 accounts for non-renal clearance. Calvert derived the formula with measured GFR (Cr-EDTA); in practice GFR is estimated with Cockcroft-Gault [2].
The 125 cap: since creatinine assays were standardised (IDMS), the FDA has recommended capping the estimated GFR in this formula at 125 mL/min, so the maximum dose = AUC × 150.
| Use | AUC |
|---|---|
| With paclitaxel every 3 weeks (ovary, lung) | 5–6 |
| With pemetrexed or etoposide every 3 weeks | 5 |
| Weekly with paclitaxel (e.g., with oesophageal chemoradiation) | 2 |
| Single agent in stage I seminoma | 7 |
- Using indexed eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²) instead of mL/min.
- A very low creatinine in a thin or older patient that overestimates GFR and dose.
- Multiplying by BSA again: the Calvert dose is total mg, not mg/m².
Common questions
Which weight for an obese patient?
Actual weight overestimates GFR in obesity; many centres use adjusted body weight, and the 125 mL/min cap still applies.
Should creatinine be repeated every cycle?
Yes: calculate each cycle with a fresh creatinine, especially with nephrotoxic drugs or when weight has changed.
References
2 referencesShow all references, 1 with a study cardClose the reference list
Numbers in the text, such as [1], refer to these sources. Sources with a “Study card” button are summarised in the site’s evidence library.
- 1Carboplatin dosage: prospective evaluation of a simple formula based on renal function
- 2Prediction of creatinine clearance from serum creatinine
This page is based on reputable scientific sources and was last updated on 27 October 2026. The content of this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a specialist physician. Consult your treating physician about any treatment decision.
Printed from the website; the full and up-to-date version: https://drdabiri.com/en/tools/carboplatin-dose-calculator/