Insulin Dosage Calculator
Calculate Bolus insulin (Correction + Carb coverage) using Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF) and Insulin-to-Carb Ratio (ICR).
About
Effective diabetes management relies on mimicking the body's natural insulin response. For individuals on Multiple Daily Injections (MDI) or pump therapy, calculating the precise bolus is a meal-time necessity. This calculator integrates two critical components: the "Carbohydrate Coverage" (food dose) and the "Correction Dose" (to lower pre-meal hyperglycemia).
The calculation depends on user-specific constants: the Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Ratio (ICR) and the Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF). Errors in these calculations can lead to hypoglycemia (insulin shock) or persistent hyperglycemia (ketoacidosis risk). This tool standardizes the math, allowing for quick adjustments based on current Blood Glucose (BG) readings and planned carbohydrate intake.
Formulas
The Total Bolus is the sum of the Correction Dose and the Carb Dose. Negative correction results (when BG is below target) may be subtracted from the carb dose depending on the plan.
Where ISF is the Sensitivity Factor and ICR is the Insulin-to-Carb Ratio.
Reference Data
| Metric | Unit | Description | Typical Formula (Rule of 1800/500) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISF | mg/dL/U | Drop in BG per 1 Unit Insulin | 1800 ÷ TDD |
| ISF (SI) | mmol/L/U | Drop in BG per 1 Unit Insulin | 100 ÷ TDD |
| ICR | g/U | Grams of Carbs covered by 1 Unit | 500 ÷ TDD |
| Target | mg/dL | Desired Blood Glucose Level | Usually 100 - 120 |