Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is a weight estimate based on height and gender that has been associated with minimal mortality rates in population studies. IBW is widely used in clinical settings for drug dosing calculations, ventilator settings, and nutritional assessments.
This calculator uses four established medical formulas:
The most commonly used formula in clinical practice:
Body frame size affects ideal weight:
To determine your frame size, measure your wrist circumference and compare to standard charts, or use the elbow breadth method.
Many medications, especially those that are hydrophilic (water-soluble), are dosed based on IBW rather than actual body weight to avoid overdosing in obese patients.
Tidal volume calculations for mechanical ventilation are based on IBW because lung size correlates better with height than with actual weight.
IBW helps determine appropriate caloric intake and is used to calculate percent IBW, which can indicate nutritional status.
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. IBW is just one measure of health and should be considered alongside other factors such as body composition, fitness level, and overall health status. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice.