HOMA-IR Calculator
Use your fasting insulin and fasting glucose to estimate your HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance).
Educational use only. Interpretation thresholds vary by lab, population, and clinical context.
What is the HOMA index?
The HOMA index (often called HOMA-IR) is a simple estimate of insulin resistance based on fasting lab values. It is commonly used in research and sometimes in clinical practice to help identify early metabolic changes.
In practical terms, a higher HOMA-IR value generally suggests lower insulin sensitivity (more insulin resistance), while lower values may indicate better insulin sensitivity.
HOMA-IR formula used in this calculator
This page calculates HOMA-IR using the standard formulas:
- If glucose is in mg/dL: HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin × Fasting Glucose) / 405
- If glucose is in mmol/L: HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin × Fasting Glucose) / 22.5
Both formulas are equivalent once units are handled correctly.
How to use this indice homa calculator
- Enter your fasting insulin value in µU/mL.
- Enter your fasting glucose value.
- Select the glucose unit (mg/dL or mmol/L).
- Click Calculate HOMA-IR to see your result and a general interpretation.
Typical interpretation guide
| HOMA-IR Range | General Meaning |
|---|---|
| < 1.0 | Often associated with high insulin sensitivity |
| 1.0 to 1.9 | Commonly considered within typical range |
| 2.0 to 2.9 | May suggest early insulin resistance |
| ≥ 3.0 | Frequently associated with significant insulin resistance risk |
These cutoffs are approximate and should not replace clinical evaluation.
Important limitations
HOMA-IR is useful, but not perfect. A single number should always be interpreted alongside your medical history, waist circumference, lipids, blood pressure, HbA1c, and other markers.
- Results depend on accurate fasting blood samples.
- Acute stress, illness, poor sleep, and medications can affect values.
- Population-specific ranges may differ.
- It is not a stand-alone diagnostic test.
When to discuss your result with a healthcare professional
Consider medical follow-up if your value is repeatedly elevated or if you also have risk factors such as central weight gain, family history of type 2 diabetes, high triglycerides, low HDL, or rising fasting glucose.
Possible next steps your clinician may consider
- Repeat fasting glucose and insulin under standardized conditions
- HbA1c and oral glucose tolerance testing when appropriate
- Lifestyle interventions: nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management
- Periodic tracking of metabolic markers over time
FAQ
Is this calculator the same as a diagnosis?
No. It is a screening/estimation tool. Diagnosis requires professional assessment.
Can I use random (non-fasting) values?
No. HOMA-IR is intended for fasting values.
Can a normal HOMA-IR completely rule out metabolic issues?
Not always. Some people can have normal fasting markers but still show abnormalities in dynamic testing or other cardiometabolic markers.