HOMA-IR
A calculated score of insulin resistance derived from fasting glucose and insulin.
| Typical reference range | below 2.5 |
| Commonly cited optimal range | below 1.5 |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is calculated as fasting insulin (uIU/mL) x fasting glucose (mg/dL) / 405. It estimates how much insulin is needed to maintain a given fasting glucose.
Why it matters
It quantifies insulin resistance in a single number and can reveal metabolic dysfunction while glucose and HbA1c are still normal. Higher scores are associated with risk of type 2 diabetes, fatty liver and cardiovascular disease.
What a high result can mean
Scores above roughly 2-2.5 suggest insulin resistance, commonly with abdominal obesity, inactivity, PCOS, fatty liver or metabolic syndrome. Non-fasting samples falsely raise it.
What a low result can mean
Low scores indicate good insulin sensitivity. Very low values with high glucose would point to insufficient insulin production rather than sensitivity.
What affects the result
Requires a true fast. Because insulin assays vary, cut-offs are not universal and are population-dependent. Exercise, weight loss, sleep and dietary changes lower HOMA-IR.
Also called on lab reports
HOMA IR, Insulin Resistance Score (HOMA-IR), HOMA-IR Index, Homeostatic Model Assessment
Related tests: Glucose & Metabolic
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.