HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) Calculator for Insulin Resistance
Representative example of moderate insulin resistance with elevated fasting glucose and insulin.
Estimates insulin resistance using fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels. Enter your Fasting Glucose, Fasting Insulin to get an instant homa-ir score. Formula: round((fasting_insulin * fasting_glucose) / 405, 2).
HOMA-IR Score
Fill in the fields above and click Calculate
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How It Works
How It Works
The HOMA-IR calculator estimates insulin resistance using two fasting lab values: blood glucose and insulin. It combines these numbers into a single score that reflects how hard your body is working to keep blood sugar under control.
The calculation multiplies your fasting insulin by your fasting glucose, then divides the result by 405. The final number is rounded to two decimal places to give a clear, easy-to-read score.
- Enter fasting glucose in mg/dL
- Enter fasting insulin in µIU/mL
- Multiply insulin × glucose
- Divide the result by 405
- The final value is rounded to 2 decimal places
Understanding the Results
Your HOMA-IR score gives an estimate of insulin resistance. Lower values generally suggest better insulin sensitivity, while higher values may indicate that your body needs more insulin to manage blood sugar.
This score is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It should always be interpreted alongside other lab results and medical guidance.
- Lower scores usually suggest better insulin sensitivity
- Higher scores may indicate insulin resistance
- There is no single “perfect” number for everyone
- Results should be reviewed with a healthcare professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HOMA-IR calculator used for?
The HOMA-IR calculator estimates insulin resistance using your fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels. It is commonly used in clinical and research settings to assess how effectively your body responds to insulin. Higher values generally indicate greater insulin resistance.
When should I use the HOMA-IR calculator?
You should use this calculator after obtaining fasting blood test results for glucose and insulin. Both values must be measured after at least 8 hours of fasting for accurate results. It is often used when evaluating risk for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
What do the HOMA-IR results mean?
Lower HOMA-IR values typically suggest better insulin sensitivity, while higher values indicate increased insulin resistance. Although reference ranges can vary, a value around 1.0 is considered normal in healthy individuals, and values above 2.0–2.5 may suggest insulin resistance. Always consult a healthcare provider for interpretation based on your personal health context.
Why must glucose be entered in mg/dL?
This calculator uses a formula that specifically requires fasting glucose in mg/dL. If your lab result is reported in mmol/L, you must convert it to mg/dL before entering it. Using incorrect units will result in an inaccurate HOMA-IR score.
Can this calculator diagnose diabetes?
No, the HOMA-IR calculator does not diagnose diabetes. It estimates insulin resistance, which is one factor related to metabolic health. A formal diagnosis of diabetes requires specific clinical tests and evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Why is fasting required for accurate results?
Fasting ensures that recent food intake does not temporarily elevate blood glucose or insulin levels. Eating before testing can significantly affect the results and make the HOMA-IR score unreliable. For best accuracy, fast for 8–12 hours before your blood test.
Disclaimer
This health calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Disclaimer.