HOMA-IR
HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a calculated index that estimates insulin resistance by combining your fasting glucose and fasting insulin values. It is derived from a formula, not directly measured from a single blood draw.
HOMA-IR distills two fasting numbers into a single estimate of how sensitively your body responds to insulin. Because it uses widely available fasting labs, it is a convenient research and screening tool for exploring metabolic health. It is calculated by multiplying fasting glucose and fasting insulin and dividing by a constant, so its accuracy depends on the quality of both inputs.
A higher HOMA-IR may suggest greater insulin resistance, meaning your body needs more insulin to manage glucose. Because it depends on fasting insulin, which varies between labs and can shift with stress or recent food, the number should be viewed as an estimate. Your clinician interprets it alongside the rest of your metabolic profile.
A lower HOMA-IR generally suggests your body is responding to insulin efficiently. As a derived value, it is only as reliable as the fasting glucose and insulin measurements behind it.
There is no universal cutoff for HOMA-IR, and thresholds differ across labs and populations. Your clinician can tell you how to interpret your specific result.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.