How can we help?

Home

HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index

Also referred as

HOMA Index Insulin Resistance

Insulin Resistance Index

2,881+ booked recently

For men & women

Earliest reports in

18 hours

Contains

5 tests

Know more about this test

The HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index is a group of blood tests used to assess an individual's insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition where cells fail to respond effectively to insulin. The resistance is calculated using fasting insulin and glucose levels.

Samples required

Blood

Find out

Why is this test booked?

Preparations

Overnight fasting required for 8 to 12 hours

Sample Collection

Who will collect your samples?

Understanding HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index

The HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test offers a noninvasive means to assess insulin sensitivity. The HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) calculation involves a mathematical model (calculated score). This method takes into account fasting glucose and insulin levels. It gives a quantitative measure of insulin resistance. The higher an individual's score, the more resistant they are to the action of insulin, indicating an increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) test tells how much insulin the pancreas needs to produce to control the blood sugar levels. This test offers a series of five parameters, including insulin-fasting, beta cell function, insulin sensitivity, glucose-fasting, and HOMA IR Index. The HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test goes a step further than a normal blood sugar test and is used as an effective method for clinical research and treatments. It is particularly useful in the early detection of conditions like type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Usually, overnight fasting (8 to 12 hours) is required before the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test. Inform the doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies being taken. Some of them may interfere with the test results and may require temporary discontinuation.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to the doctor about the specific test results. The results will help doctors identify individuals at risk of metabolic dysfunction, enabling early intervention strategies such as lifestyle modifications, medications, etc.

What does HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index measure?

Contains 5 tests

The HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index is a blood test used to assess an individual's insulin resistance, a fundamental aspect of metabolic health crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. The test is based on the principle that the body's glucose and insulin levels are closely related. When the body is functioning normally, glucose and insulin levels should be in balance. Through a mathematical model utilizing fasting insulin and glucose levels, this test provides a quantitative assessment of insulin sensitivity. This index helps doctors gauge how effectively the body processes glucose in response to insulin. Getting tested offers insights into the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

Moreover, the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test helps in personalized health management. By identifying individuals with insulin resistance early on, doctors can implement targeted strategies. These may include lifestyle modifications and medication therapy to improve insulin sensitivity and prevent complications. However, in individuals taking insulin injections, HOMA IR cannot be used to assess pancreatic beta cell function accurately. For such individuals, the HOMA IR-C peptide model is recommended.

Also, checking HOMA-IR levels regularly helps doctors see if the treatment is working. Overall, the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test empowers individuals and doctors to proactively address metabolic health concerns, paving the way for improved overall well-being and reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Insulin, Fasting

The Insulin, Fasting test evaluates the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels by measuring the amount of insulin in the blood after an overnight fast. Glucose is a source of energy that helps the body perform daily activities. Your body gets glucose from carbohydrates that are consumed in the diet. These carbohydrates are digested and converted into simple sugar (glucose). The cells then absorb the required amount of glucose to produce energy, and the remaining amount is stored in other forms, like fats. The insulin hormone helps the cells to uptake glucose from the blood for utilization and storage. Thus, it is necessary to maintain insulin levels in your body.

Know more about Insulin, Fasting

Beta Cell Function

Insulin Sensitivity

FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)

The FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar) test measures the glucose level in the body under overnight fasting conditions. Glucose is the body's energy currency and is broken down through metabolism to produce energy. Hormones and enzymes produced by the liver and pancreas control this process. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, regulates blood glucose levels. When these levels are high, such as after a meal, insulin is secreted to transport glucose into cells for energy production. Elevated glucose levels in the body after fasting may indicate a risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes, which can be of two types: Type 1, caused by little or no insulin production, and Type 2, caused by insulin resistance or decreased insulin production.

Know more about FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)

HOMA-IR Index

Frequently booked together

FAQs related to HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index

What is the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test?

The HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index is a blood test that measures insulin resistance. It checks how effectively the body responds to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Are there any special preparations required before the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test?

Yes, you must fast for 8-12 hours before taking the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test. However, you can drink water.

What are the risks associated with the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test?

The risks associated with this test are generally minimal. Some people may experience mild pain or discomfort at the site from where the blood sample is taken, which is usually self-limiting.

What if the HOMA index is high?

A high HOMA index indicates the presence of insulin resistance, a condition in which the body does not adequately respond to insulin. It can lead to significant consequences, such as elevated blood sugar levels, increased insulin production, weight gain, and cardiovascular risk.

Can HOMA IR test predict diabetes?

Yes, the HOMA IR test can predict the risk of developing diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. Elevated HOMA IR levels indicate insulin resistance, a key factor that contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Is type 2 diabetes preventable?

TType 2 diabetes is largely preventable through lifestyle changes such as keeping weight under control, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking. However, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, and currently, there is no cure for it.

How often should I book the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test?

The frequency of getting the HOMA IR; Insulin Resistance Index test depends on the individual’s health condition and their diabetes status. However, it is best to follow your doctor's recommendations.

How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories. Tata 1mg uses advanced technology and adheres to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

Content created by

Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)

MBBS, MD Lab Medicine

Want to know moreRead our editorial policy

Last Updated

11th Oct 2025