Insulin Dosage Calculator

- May 09, 2025
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Calculate insulin dosages based on carbohydrate intake, blood glucose levels, and personal correction factors. This calculator helps determine mealtime insulin doses for people with diabetes who use insulin therapy.

Important: Always consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting insulin doses. This calculator is a tool to assist with dose estimation but should not replace medical advice.

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About Insulin Dosing

Insulin doses for people with diabetes are typically calculated based on carbohydrate intake and blood glucose levels. The two main components of mealtime insulin dosing are:

Meal Bolus

The meal bolus is calculated based on the amount of carbohydrates you plan to eat and your insulin-to-carb ratio (ICR).

Meal Bolus = Carbohydrates (g) ÷ Insulin-to-Carb Ratio (g/unit)

For example, if you're eating 60g of carbs and your ICR is 10g/unit, you would need 6 units for your meal.

Correction Bolus

The correction bolus is calculated when your blood glucose is above your target range. It's based on your current glucose level, your target glucose, and your correction factor (CF).

Correction Bolus = (Current BG - Target BG) ÷ Correction Factor

For example, if your current BG is 180 mg/dL, your target is 100 mg/dL, and your CF is 40 mg/dL per unit, you would need 2 units for correction.

Active Insulin (Insulin on Board)

Active insulin, or insulin on board (IOB), refers to insulin from previous doses that is still working in your body. To prevent insulin stacking and potential hypoglycaemia, the calculator subtracts active insulin from the correction dose.

Important Notes
  • Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine your personal insulin-to-carb ratio, correction factor, and target glucose levels.
  • The calculator provides estimates based on the information you enter. Your actual insulin needs may vary.
  • Consider factors such as exercise, illness, stress, and hormonal changes that may affect your insulin requirements.
  • Always check your blood glucose regularly and be prepared to treat hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

Understanding the Insulin Dosage Calculator

The Insulin Dosage Calculator is a handy tool for people managing Diabetes. It helps estimate insulin doses based on several factors like carbohydrate intake and blood glucose levels. By inputting your current blood glucose and carbs you plan to eat, this calculator provides a personalised insulin dosage to better manage your diabetes. However, always remember that this tool is meant to assist you and should not replace professional medical advice.

How It Works: Meal and Correction Bolus

The calculator focuses on two main types of insulin doses: the meal bolus and the correction bolus. The meal bolus is determined by the carbohydrates you eat and your insulin-to-carb ratio. The correction bolus adjusts your insulin dose based on how your current blood glucose compares to your target level. By breaking the calculations down, it simplifies insulin management into clear steps you can follow.

Setting Up Your Personal Settings

Personal settings are crucial for accurate dosages. You can enter your insulin-to-carb ratio, correction factor, target blood glucose, and how long your insulin lasts. These settings allow the calculator to give you a dose recommendation tailored to your needs. Adjusting these numbers correctly can lead to more effective management of your diabetes.

Key Input Factors for Accurate Results

  • Current Blood Glucose: Input your current blood sugar level for a precise calculation.
  • Carbohydrates: Enter the grams of carbs you'll eat at your next meal.
  • Active Insulin (IOB): Include any insulin still active from earlier doses to avoid overdosing.
  • Exercise Adjustment: Take into account your activity level, which can affect your insulin needs.

Understanding Meal Bolus Calculations

The meal bolus is calculated by dividing your carbohydrate intake by your insulin-to-carb ratio. For instance, if you plan to eat 60 grams of carbohydrates and your ratio is 10 grams per unit of insulin, you would need 6 units of insulin for that meal. This simple formula can help you prepare for mealtime and manage your blood sugar effectively.

Understanding Correction Bolus Calculations

For the correction bolus, the formula considers your current blood glucose level, your target blood glucose, and your correction factor. For example, if your current blood sugar is 180 mg/dL and your target is 100 mg/dL, with a correction factor of 40 mg/dL per unit, the calculation helps determine how much additional insulin you need. This ensures you can correct high blood sugars safely.

Benefits of Using the Insulin Dosage Calculator

  • Personalised Dosing: Get tailored insulin recommendations based on your data.
  • Simple Interface: Easy-to-use layout for quick calculations without confusion.
  • Informed Decisions: Helps you make better choices regarding insulin management and dietary intake.
  • Educational Insights: Learn about effective dosing strategies while using the tool.

Important Considerations When Using the Calculator

While the calculator is a useful tool, it's vital to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your insulin regimen. Your provider can help you establish your personal settings and guide you on maintaining healthy blood glucose levels. Additionally, keep in mind factors like stress, illness, and hormonal changes that can impact your insulin needs.