HOMA-IR Calculator
Assess insulin resistance through HOMA-IR index (Homeostatic Model Assessment).
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is an educational and clinical decision support tool. Results DO NOT replace professional medical evaluation, laboratory tests, or clinical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decisions. Calculations are based on scientifically validated formulas but may not be applicable to all patients.
Calculate HOMA-IR
What is HOMA-IR?
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a method to quantify insulin resistance using fasting glucose and insulin. Formula: (Insulin μU/mL × Glucose mg/dL) / 405. Developed in 1985, correlates well with euglycemic clamp (gold standard). Values >2.5 indicate insulin resistance.
When to use HOMA-IR?
Use to assess insulin resistance in: obesity, metabolic syndrome, pre-diabetes, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), fatty liver, hypertension, dyslipidemia. Useful to monitor response to interventions (diet, exercise, metformin). Requires 8-12 hour fast. Do not use in diabetics on insulin.
Limitations and Considerations
Not validated in type 1 diabetics, type 2 diabetics on insulin, or fasting glucose >140 mg/dL. Cutoff points vary by ethnicity (Asians: >2.0; Caucasians: >2.5). Factors that alter: stress, medications (corticosteroids, beta-blockers), acute illnesses. Euglycemic clamp is gold standard but impractical in routine.
Frequently Asked Questions about HOMA-IR
Does high HOMA-IR mean diabetes?
Not necessarily. HOMA-IR measures insulin resistance, which precedes type 2 diabetes by years. Many with high HOMA-IR never develop diabetes if they modify lifestyle. However, HOMA-IR >2.5 increases risk 3-5x. Evaluate glucose, HbA1c, and OGTT for diabetes diagnosis.
How to improve HOMA-IR?
Lose 5-10% body weight (most effective), regular exercise (150 min/week resistance+aerobic), diet low in refined carbs and sugars, adequate sleep (7-9h), reduce stress. Metformin if BMI >35 or pre-diabetes. Improves HOMA-IR by 20-40% in 3-6 months.
What's the difference between HOMA-IR and HOMA-Beta?
HOMA-IR measures insulin resistance (how well cells respond to insulin). HOMA-Beta measures pancreatic beta-cell function (insulin secretion capacity). Formula HOMA-Beta: (360 × Insulin) / (Glucose - 63). Both together assess if problem is resistance, insufficient secretion, or both.
Is HOMA-IR useful for children?
Yes, but different cutoff points. Pre-pubertal children: >2.5. Adolescents in puberty: >3.5 (puberty causes physiological resistance). Useful in childhood obesity, adolescent PCOS, pediatric fatty liver. Always correlate with BMI, waist circumference, and Tanner stage.