Insulin Dosage Calculator

The Insulin Dosage Calculator estimates your total insulin dose in units based on your weight, blood glucose, and carbohydrate intake. This tool helps people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels effectively. Whether you need a mealtime dose, a correction dose, or are managing illness, this calculator provides precise guidance for safer dosing.

lbs
Enter your weight (44-660 lbs / 20-300 kg)
years
Enter your age (5-100 years)
mg/dL
Enter your current blood glucose (20-600 mg/dL)
mg/dL
Enter your target blood glucose (70-150 mg/dL)
grams
Enter your carbohydrate intake (0-200 g)
Select the type of insulin you use
Select your typical activity level
Toggle if you are currently sick

How Total Insulin Dose Is Calculated

Total Insulin Dose represents the specific units of insulin required to cover carbohydrates and correct high blood sugar levels. This tool relies on established medical formulas, such as the 500 Rule and 1700 Rule, often recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

First, it calculates your Total Daily Dose (TDD) using your weight and insulin type to determine your baseline sensitivity. Then, it establishes a Carb Ratio to cover your meal and a Correction Factor to lower your glucose to a safe range. This method ensures your dose accounts for both food and current health status.

Total Dose = (Carb Intake ÷ Carb Ratio) + ((Current BG - Target BG) ÷ Correction Factor)

Where:

  • Carb Ratio = 500 ÷ Total Daily Dose
  • Correction Factor = 1700 (Rapid) or 1500 (Short) ÷ Total Daily Dose

What Your Total Insulin Dose Means

This number tells you exactly how many units of insulin to inject before a meal to keep your blood sugar stable. It combines the insulin needed for food with any extra insulin required to lower high blood sugar. By following these recommendations, you can maintain better control over your diabetes.

Mealtime Management: A result of 4-8 units typically covers a standard meal. This dose prevents glucose spikes by matching insulin directly to the carbohydrates you plan to eat.

High Blood Sugar Correction: If the calculator adds 2-5 extra units to your mealtime dose, it indicates your current glucose is above target. This specific addition helps bring your levels back down safely.

Adjusting for Activity: If your total dose is lower than usual, it reflects that physical activity makes your body more sensitive to insulin, reducing your needs to prevent low blood sugar.

This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing your insulin regimen.

For the best results, test your blood sugar 2 hours after eating to see how the dose affected you.

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