1. What is the Volume Correction Factor?

The Volume Correction Factor (also known as insulin sensitivity factor) estimates how much 1 unit of rapid-acting insulin will lower blood glucose. It's calculated from the total daily dose (TDD) of insulin.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{TDD} \) — Total daily dose of insulin (units)
• 1800 — Constant derived from clinical studies

Explanation: The formula estimates that 1 unit of insulin will lower blood glucose by (1800/TDD) mg/dL.

3. Importance of Correction Factor

Details: The correction factor is essential for calculating insulin doses to correct high blood glucose levels in diabetes management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total daily dose of insulin in units. The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 1800 used in the formula?
A: 1800 is an empirically derived constant that represents the average glucose-lowering effect of insulin in mg/dL per unit.

Q2: What is a typical correction factor?
A: For most adults, it ranges from 30-100 mg/dL per unit, depending on insulin sensitivity and TDD.

Q3: When should I recalculate my correction factor?
A: Recalculate whenever your TDD changes significantly (by 10% or more) or if your insulin sensitivity changes.

Q4: Are there alternative formulas?
A: Some use 1500 instead of 1800 for more insulin-sensitive individuals, or 2000 for those with type 2 diabetes.

Q5: Should this be used alone for dosing decisions?
A: No, always consider other factors like meal timing, activity level, and individual response to insulin.