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Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)

Mean arterial pressure ≈ (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3, i.e. diastolic plus one-third of pulse pressure. Normal is about 70–100 mmHg; a MAP ≥65 mmHg is the usual initial target in septic shock.

  • Systolic blood pressure (mmHg or kPa)
  • Diastolic blood pressure (mmHg or kPa)
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Interpretation

ResultMeaning
< 60Hypoperfusion risk
60–64Below sepsis target
65–100Normal / at target
> 100Elevated

Formula

MAP = (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3 = DBP + (SBP − DBP) ÷ 3

Clinical pearls

  • The 1/3 rule assumes a normal heart rate; at tachycardia diastole shortens and true MAP sits closer to the arithmetic mean.
  • An arterial line measures MAP directly and is more reliable than this estimate in shock.

Examples

map 120/80mean arterial pressure for bp 85/45what is the map with systolic 140 and diastolic 90

FAQ

What is a normal MAP?

Roughly 70 to 100 mmHg; organ perfusion is generally maintained above 60–65 mmHg.

What MAP target is used in septic shock?

Surviving Sepsis guidelines recommend an initial target MAP of 65 mmHg in patients requiring vasopressors.

Evidence

  1. Meaney E et al. Formula and nomogram for the sphygmomanometric calculation of the mean arterial pressure. Heart 2000;84:64.

Cardiology · Reviewed 2026-10-14 · Methodology