What is this test?
HOMA-IR is a calculated index based on fasting glucose and fasting insulin. It estimates insulin resistance at a population level but is not a stand-alone diagnosis and is not interchangeable across all assays.
Why might it be ordered?
- For clinician-directed assessment of possible insulin resistance.
- To follow a metabolic plan when the same method and clinical context are used.
What sample is needed?
A fasting blood sample is needed for glucose and insulin collected at the same time.
How should you prepare?
Follow the laboratory fasting interval, usually overnight, and avoid unusual exercise, alcohol or acute illness when possible. Ask how to handle diabetes medicines and never change them on your own.
How should you understand the result?
Cutoffs vary by population and laboratory, and insulin assays are not fully standardized. Glucose, HbA1c, lipids, blood pressure and clinical features remain important.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.