Insulin Dosing Calculator

Insulin Dosing Formula:

\[ Dose = \frac{Carbs}{ICR} + \frac{(BG - Target)}{ISF} \]

Carbs (carbohydrates):

grams

ICR (insulin to carb ratio):

grams/unit

BG (blood glucose):

mg/dL

Target (target glucose):

mg/dL

ISF (insulin sensitivity factor):

mg/dL/unit

Dose (insulin units):

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1. What is the Insulin Dosing Formula?

The insulin dosing formula calculates the appropriate insulin dose based on carbohydrate intake and current blood glucose levels. It combines both the carbohydrate coverage dose and the correction dose to determine the total insulin needed.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the insulin dosing formula:

\[ Dose = \frac{Carbs}{ICR} + \frac{(BG - Target)}{ISF} \]

Where:

\( Carbs \) — Carbohydrate intake (grams)
\( ICR \) — Insulin to carbohydrate ratio (grams/unit)
\( BG \) — Current blood glucose (mg/dL)
\( Target \) — Target blood glucose (mg/dL)
\( ISF \) — Insulin sensitivity factor (mg/dL/unit)

Explanation: The first part of the equation calculates insulin needed for carbohydrates, while the second part calculates the correction dose based on current blood glucose level.

3. Importance of Insulin Dosing Calculation

Details: Accurate insulin dosing is crucial for maintaining blood glucose levels within target range, preventing both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, and managing diabetes effectively.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter carbohydrate intake in grams, insulin to carb ratio, current blood glucose, target blood glucose, and insulin sensitivity factor. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if my blood glucose is below target?
A: If BG is below target, the correction part of the formula will result in a negative value, which may reduce your total insulin dose or indicate you need to consume carbohydrates.

Q2: How do I determine my ICR and ISF values?
A: These values are typically determined with your healthcare provider through testing and monitoring. They vary from person to person.

Q3: Should I round the insulin dose?
A: It's generally recommended to round to the nearest 0.5 or 1 unit based on your insulin delivery device capabilities and your healthcare provider's guidance.

Q4: Are there situations where this formula might not apply?
A: Yes, during illness, stress, pregnancy, or when using certain medications, insulin requirements may change. Always consult with your healthcare provider.

Q5: Can this formula be used for both rapid-acting and long-acting insulin?
A: This formula is typically used for rapid-acting insulin taken at mealtimes. Long-acting insulin dosing is usually determined separately.