HOMA-IR Calculator — Insulin Resistance

The HOMA-IR score is calculated using a standard mathematical equation that relates fasting plasma glucose and fasting serum insulin. The core formula when glucose is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and insulin is in micro-international units per milliliter (μIU/mL) is: HOMA-IR = (Insulin × Glucose) / 405. Additionally, this calculator computes the Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI) using the logarithmic transformation: QUICKI = 1 / [log₁₀(Insulin) + log₁₀(Glucose)]. Together, these metrics provide a comprehensive snapshot of how effectively your cells respond to insulin.

Imagine a patient with a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL and a fasting insulin level of 15 μIU/mL. To find the HOMA-IR score, multiply the insulin by the glucose (15 × 100 = 1500), and then divide that product by the constant 405. Performing the division (1500 / 405) yields a HOMA-IR score of approximately 3.70. To find the QUICKI score, we take the base-10 logarithms of both values (log₁₀(15) ≈ 1.176 and log₁₀(100) = 2.0), sum them up to get 3.176, and divide 1 by this sum, resulting in a QUICKI score of approximately 0.315. These values indicate a moderate level of insulin resistance, prompting a discussion with a healthcare provider about lifestyle modifications.

To ensure your HOMA-IR calculation is as reliable as possible, always use blood samples taken after an overnight fast of at least 8 to 12 hours. Ensure that both glucose and insulin are drawn from the same blood draw to avoid physiological fluctuations. Furthermore, remember that a single HOMA-IR test is just one data point; it should be interpreted alongside a full metabolic panel, lipid profile, and clinical evaluation by a qualified medical professional.