Ideal Body Weight (IBW) Calculator
About Ideal Body Weight (IBW)
Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is an estimate of the optimal weight range for a person based on their height and gender. It is used in various medical contexts, including drug dosing and nutritional assessment.
Formula:
The calculator uses the Devine formula:
- Male IBW = 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet
- Female IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet
Limitations:
IBW doesn't account for factors such as muscle mass, body composition, or individual variations. It should be used as a general guideline and not as a definitive health indicator.
References:
- Devine BJ. Gentamicin therapy. Drug Intell Clin Pharm. 1974;8:650–655.
- Pai MP, Paloucek FP. The origin of the "ideal" body weight equations. Ann Pharmacother. 2000;34(9):1066-1069.