💉 Insulin Dose Calculator
Calculate Basal, Bolus & Correction Insulin Doses Using 1800/1500 Rules & Weight-Based Dosing
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For new patients starting insulin
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Advanced insulin delivery
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Dose Distribution
Glucose Effect
Formula Comparison
Daily Pattern
Understanding Insulin Dosing
Insulin dosing is a critical component of diabetes management. The goal is to maintain blood glucose levels within a target range, typically 70-180 mg/dL for most adults with diabetes. The total daily insulin dose (TDD) is usually divided into basal insulin (background) and bolus insulin (meal-time and correction).
Why Accurate Insulin Dosing Matters
Proper insulin dosing is essential for several reasons:
Key Insulin Dosing Formulas
| Formula | Equation | Clinical Application |
|---|---|---|
| 1800 Rule (Rapid-acting) | ISF = 1800 ÷ TDD |
Components of Insulin Dosing
| Component | Calculation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Basal Insulin |
Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF)
ISF, also known as the correction factor, indicates how much 1 unit of insulin lowers blood glucose. It varies by individual and is typically calculated using the 1800/1500 rule:
- 1800 Rule: For rapid-acting insulin (ISF = 1800 ÷ TDD)
- 1500 Rule: For regular/short-acting insulin (ISF = 1500 ÷ TDD)
- Example: TDD = 40 units → ISF = 1800 ÷ 40 = 45 mg/dL per unit
Carbohydrate Ratio (ICR)
ICR determines how many grams of carbohydrates are covered by 1 unit of insulin:
- 500 Rule: ICR = 500 ÷ TDD (for rapid-acting insulin)
- Example: TDD = 40 units → ICR = 500 ÷ 40 = 12.5 grams per unit
- Higher ratio = more insulin resistant (needs more insulin per carb)
- Lower ratio = more insulin sensitive (needs less insulin per carb)
Initial Total Daily Dose (TDD) Estimation
For patients new to insulin therapy, TDD can be estimated using weight-based formulas:
- Type 1 Diabetes: 0.4-0.6 units/kg/day (average 0.5)
- Type 2 Diabetes: 0.5-1.0 units/kg/day (often higher due to insulin resistance)
- Gestational Diabetes: 0.7-1.0 units/kg/day in third trimester
Basal vs. Bolus Distribution
The total daily insulin dose is typically divided as:
- Basal (Long-acting): 40-50% of TDD
- Bolus (Rapid-acting): 50-60% of TDD, divided across meals
- Common bolus distribution: 30% breakfast, 30% lunch, 40% dinner
Factors Affecting Insulin Needs
Blood Glucose Targets
Standard blood glucose targets (ADA Guidelines):
- Fasting/Pre-meal: 80-130 mg/dL
- Post-meal (1-2 hours): Less than 180 mg/dL
- Bedtime: 100-140 mg/dL
- A1C Goal: Less than 7% for most adults
Hypoglycemia Prevention
Recognize and treat low blood glucose (below 70 mg/dL):
- Mild (55-69 mg/dL): 15g fast-acting carbs (4 oz juice, 3-4 glucose tablets)
- Moderate (40-54 mg/dL): 20-30g fast-acting carbs, recheck in 15 minutes
- Severe (Below 40 mg/dL): Glucagon injection or emergency medical care
Adjusting Insulin Doses
When to adjust insulin doses:
- Pattern management: Review blood glucose logs over 3-7 days
- Fasting hyperglycemia: Increase basal insulin by 10-20%
- Post-meal hyperglycemia: Adjust ICR or pre-meal timing
- Consistent lows: Decrease insulin by 10-20%
- Make changes gradually: Wait 2-3 days between adjustments
⚠️ Critical Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. Insulin dosing must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider. Never change your insulin dose without consulting your diabetes care team. Incorrect insulin dosing can lead to severe hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, DKA, or death. Always follow your provider's specific instructions.
Last updated: November 2024 | Based on ADA and AACE guidelines