Basal-bolus insulin starting regimen
Weight-based total daily dose split into basal and mealtime insulin, with correction factor and carb ratio.
Inputs
2 of 3Actual (total) body weight
Starting intensity
Basal share
Patient values are shared with every calculator.
When to use
- Starting basal-bolus insulin in a hospitalized adult who is eating.
Pearls and pitfalls
- Use 0.2–0.3 units/kg for age 70 or older, eGFR below 30, or low intake; 0.4–0.5 units/kg otherwise.
- Hold prandial doses if the patient is not eating.
- The 1800 and 500 rules assume rapid-acting analogs.
Why use
One screen from weight to an orderable regimen.
TDD = weight × 0.2–0.5 units/kg; basal 50%; prandial 50% ÷ 3 meals; correction factor = 1800 ÷ TDD; carb ratio = 500 ÷ TDD