What is HOMA-IR?

HOMA-IR is a calculation used to measure insulin resistance, meaning how well your body responds to insulin.

Higher HOMA-IR = More insulin resistance

Lower HOMA-IR = Better insulin sensitivity

When is HOMA-IR Test Done? (Indications)

Doctors suggest this test when they suspect:

✔ Insulin resistance

✔ Prediabetes

✔ Type 2 diabetes risk

✔ PCOS

✔ Obesity

✔ Metabolic syndrome

✔ High fasting sugar but normal HbA1c

✔ High fasting insulin

For PCOS, HOMA-IR is commonly used to assess metabolic health.

What Preparation Are done for the HOMA-IR Test

✔ Fasting is required (8–12 hours)

✔ Only water is allowed

✔ Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours

✔ Avoid alcohol 24 hours before

✔ Take medications normally unless your doctor advises otherwise

✔ Do not take biotin (Vitamin B7) 24 hours before the test

How the HOMA-IR Test Is Done

It is not a separate test—

HOMA-IR is calculated using two blood tests:

1. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
2. Fasting Insulin Level

Formula:

HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin × Fasting Glucose) ÷ 405

(Lab usually calculates it for you.)

Interpretation (What Results Mean)

⭐ Normal Ranges (General Guidance)

HOMA-IR ValueInterpretation< 1Excellent insulin sensitivity1 – 1.9Normal2 – 2.9Early insulin resistance≥ 3Significant insulin resistance

Ranges may vary slightly based on lab and country.

What High HOMA-IR Means

High HOMA-IR indicates:

• Insulin resistance
• Increased diabetes risk
• PCOS-related metabolic issues
• Fatty liver risk
• Weight gain around abdomen
• High inflammation

Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue after meals
• Sugar cravings
• Difficulty losing weight
• Dark skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)

What Low HOMA-IR Means

Usually good, meaning insulin is working well.

Very low value may occur in:

• Underweight individuals
• Strong athletic or very lean people