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Ideal Body Weight Calculator

Input

cm

Optional: enter actual weight to calculate Adjusted Body Weight

Ideal Body Weight

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About

Ideal Body Weight (IBW) estimates a person's weight based on height and sex using the Devine formula. IBW is commonly used in clinical practice for drug dosing (e.g., tidal volume calculations, aminoglycoside dosing) and nutritional assessment. Adjusted Body Weight (ABW) is used when actual weight significantly exceeds IBW, providing a more appropriate value for dosing calculations.

Formula

Male: IBW (kg) = 50 + 2.3 × (Height in inches − 60)
Female: IBW (kg) = 45.5 + 2.3 × (Height in inches − 60)
Adjusted BW (kg) = IBW + 0.4 × (Actual Weight − IBW)

Interpretation

IBW is used as a reference point for clinical dosing. Patients significantly above or below IBW may require dose adjustments.

If actual weight exceeds IBW by more than 30%, Adjusted Body Weight is often recommended for drug dosing.

References

  1. Devine BJ. Gentamicin therapy. Drug Intell Clin Pharm. 1974;8:650-655.
  2. Pai MP, Paloucek FP. The origin of the "ideal" body weight equations. Ann Pharmacother. 2000;34(9):1066-1069.

FAQ

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Disclaimer

For educational and informational purposes only. Not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.