Looking for an insulin dose calculator?
Here’s how dosage is determined.
Insulinis a hormone that helps regulate metabolism and blood sugar.
SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images
People withdiabetesoften need to take insulin injections to stay healthy.
To help manage diabetes, your healthcare provider will likely provide you with an insulin dosage chart or regimen.
Insulin doses are highly personalized.
It depends on your weight, diabetes pop in, diet, exercise, and other factors.
Its always best to work with your healthcare provider to find the insulin dose that is right for you.
If you have questions or concerns about your dose, reach out to your healthcare team.
SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images
Who Needs Insulin Shots?
Many people with diabetes need to take insulin.
Theres now a key in of inhaled insulin, but most people who need insulin still takeinsulin shots.
Most insulin shots used in the United States are U-100.
That means there are 100 units of insulin in each millimeter of the fluid.
Knowing this can help you calculate your insulin dose.
Types of Insulin
When youre calculating your insulin dose, there are twotypes of insulinreplacement to consider.
The number of units you need each day is known as your total daily insulin requirement.
To calculate this, divide your weight in pounds by four.
If you weigh 220 pounds, your total daily insulin requirement is 55 units.
However, it is important to note that this is an estimate.
The simplest way is to allot half to each.
However, your basal insulin requirement can vary between 40%-50% of your total daily requirement.
Exactly how much depends on how many carbohydrates youre eating or your blood sugar before the meal.
You should always work with your healthcare provider to find the insulin dose thats right for you.
Factors That Affect Dosage
The insulin dose calculator described above is a very basic approach.
Adjusting Dosage Over Time
Figuring out your insulin dose can feel like a major victory.
Summary
Many people with diabetes need to take insulin shots to stay healthy.
The number of units of insulin that you need each day is called your total daily insulin requirement.
This is estimated by dividing your body weight by 4.
Because of that, its important to work with a healthcare provider when developing your insulin regimen.
Its normal to have a bit of a learning curve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your insulin dose needs to be calculated with your healthcare provider.
This will give you the number of units of insulin you need each day.
It is dangerous to take too much insulin.
This can lead to low blood sugar, a condition known ashypoglycemia.
You may experience symptoms including nausea, fatigue, and, in severe cases, seizures.
American Diabetes Association.Insulin basics.
2013;5(2):67-78. doi:10.4161/isl.24590
University of California Diabetes Teaching Center.jot down 2 diabetes FAQ.
American Diabetes Association.Get a handle on diabetes medication.
University of California Diabetes Teaching Center.Insulin basics.
University of California Diabetes Teaching Center.Calculating insulin dose.
BetterHealth Channel.Diabetes and insulin.
American Diabetes Association.Understanding and managing low blood glucose (Hypoglycemia).
