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Choose collection locationDiabetes · Individual laboratory test
HOMA-IR: Insulin Resistance Index
HOMA-IR uses fasting insulin and glucose together to estimate insulin resistance. It is a calculated index and should be interpreted in the clinical context.
Price for this test on its ownAED 250Test price AED 150
Clinical authorDr Nirupama SabhapathySpecialist Clinical Pathology
- Sample
- Serum
- Laboratory turnaround
- 24 hours
- Collection
- Dubai
- Laboratory
- Intel Lab
Understanding the test
What does HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance Index) measure?
Also called Insulin Resistance Index
A clinician may use the index as supporting information when investigating metabolic changes. It requires glucose and insulin obtained together under fasting conditions.
When it may be requested
A fasting metabolic assessment
The calculation draws on a paired fasting glucose and insulin measurement.
Understanding the inputs
Looking at the two underlying results can explain why the index changed.
Before your sample
Prepare for collection
SpecimenSerum
Your checklist
An overnight fast of eight to twelve hours is needed so glucose and insulin reflect the same baseline. Ask the prescribing clinician how to manage medicines during the fast.
A clinician takes a small sample of blood from a vein. The laboratory uses serum, the liquid separated from the blood after it clots.
Smart Report
Understanding your result
24 hoursLaboratory turnaround
Result guideHOMA-IR: Insulin Resistance Index
Reading your result
The result is an estimate based on a model. Insulin methods and population differences limit direct comparison between laboratories and make a universal cutoff inappropriate.
What can affect it
- Insulin assays and population differences limit comparisons between published HOMA-IR cutoffs.
From sample to follow-up
Your testing journey
Laboratory testHOMA-IR: Insulin Resistance Index
- Specimen
- Serum
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
Open your laboratory report
Look for HOMA-IR: Insulin Resistance Index in your report. Use the sample type and collection time when comparing it with an earlier report.
Explore Smart Report
Discuss the next step
Ask to see the fasting glucose and insulin values behind the calculation and discuss how the index fits your wider metabolic assessment.
Clinical expertise
Your laboratory team
Patient questions
Before you book
Can this index diagnose diabetes by itself?
No. There is no single universal HOMA-IR cutoff for everyone. Clinicians use established glucose or HbA1c criteria when assessing diabetes.
Why check HOMA-IR if my fasting glucose is normal?
Your pancreas may make more insulin to keep glucose in range. The index estimates that relationship from one fasting sample. It cannot tell if or when you will develop diabetes. For that question, your clinician considers your history and established glucose tests.
Is HOMA-IR useful if I have PCOS?
Routine PCOS care does not require HOMA-IR. If you and your clinician want to check how your body handles glucose, the international guideline identifies the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test as the most accurate option for people with PCOS.
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Your next step
HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance Index) test at home.
Sources & further reading
Written by Dr Nirupama Sabhapathy, Specialist Clinical Pathology. Medically reviewed by Dr Joyce Jose, Specialist Clinical Pathology, on .
Catalogue information and AED price checked on 2 November 2026. Clinical suitability, preparation, collection arrangements and turnaround are confirmed for your selected test.