EVAL Foundation For practitioners Updated April 2, 2024

HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance)

Approximates insulin resistance

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Min 0 – Max 500

Min 0 – Max 1000

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Summary

Usage

The homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score is a shortcut for estimating severity of insulin resistance (IR) in patients evaluated for potentially impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes. It is not intended for patients on insulin, and studies have questioned its accuracy in several populations, such as the elderly. The score may be most beneficial for population-based assessments. Additionally, optimal diagnostic cutoffs for normal insulin resistance and insulin resistance related conditions can vary considerably across populations. 

 

"Clamp' measurement is the gold standard for measuring IR but remains resource intensive, invasive, and time consuming. The HOMAR-IR score is often considered as a surrogate metric. Studies suggest a reasonable correlation between HOMAR-IR and 'clamp' measurement. However, agreement levels between the two are weak which suggests more research is needed to gauge individual accuracy and clinical use.

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Summary

The homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMAR-IR) score is used as a surrogate metric for insulin resistance (IR) severity. The 'clamp' measurement remains the gold standard. Additionally, optimal diagnostic cutoffs for normal insulin resistance and insulin resistance related conditions can vary considerably across populations. 

 

Formula

 

HOMAR-IR Score = (Fasting Insulin, µIU/mL) * (Fasting Glucose, mg/dL) / 405

 

Results

 

Common reference levels for HOMAR-IR insulin resistance range from 0.7 - 2. 

 

Studies suggests a score > 2 may indicate insulin resistance. However, "normal" values appear to vary greatly by population.

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  • Jennifer Glen , DNP, FNP-BC — EVAL Health, Chief Medical Officer