Estimate a starting total daily insulin dose from body weight, with basal–bolus split, carb ratio and correction factor, for clinician review.
Result
How to use this tool
Use kilograms, or pounds with the unit switch.
0.5 units/kg/day is the typical starting estimate.
Basal–bolus split plus carb ratio and correction factor are shown.
This is a discussion estimate, never a prescription.
Formula & worked example
At 80 kg and 0.5 units/kg/day, the estimated total daily dose is 40 units: about 20 basal and 20 mealtime, a carb ratio of 1 unit per 12.5 g and a correction factor of 1 unit per 45 mg/dL.
Limitations — read this before you rely on it
Educational starting estimate only; actual insulin dosing is clinician-determined and highly individual. This tool is for education only and is not medical advice. Talk to a clinician about any result that worries you, and never change treatment because of a calculator result.
Frequently asked questions
All basal plus mealtime insulin in a day. A common starting estimate in type 1 diabetes is about 0.5 units per kg per day.
Carb ratio ≈ 500 / total daily dose (grams per unit) and correction factor ≈ 1800 / total daily dose (mg/dL per unit) for rapid-acting insulin.
No. It is a starting split; pumps, meals, activity and glucose patterns often shift the balance.
Not directly. Type 2 starting regimens, often basal-only, differ and need prescriber planning.
No. Insulin changes need a clinician or diabetes team, especially with illness, low blood sugar or changing activity.