Estimate ideal body weight with the Devine formula (1974)—one of the earliest height-based prescribing formulas still referenced in clinical pharmacology and nutrition literature.
Formula
Height is converted to inches: inches = cm ÷ 2.54. Let h = inches above 5 feet (60 inches).
- Male: IBW (kg) = 50 + 2.3 × h
- Female: IBW (kg) = 45.5 + 2.3 × h
Results are rounded to one decimal place. Valid height range is 100–250 cm.
When to use it
Compare Devine estimates against Robinson or Miller on the same height, teach classic IBW history, or approximate weight-based drug dosing starting points where institutional protocols still cite Devine.
Limitations
Devine assumes a medium frame and does not adjust for age, ethnicity, muscle mass, or bone density. It can underestimate healthy weight for athletic builds and overestimate for petite frames. Below 5 feet (152 cm), h is negative, producing values below the base constants—interpret cautiously.
Example
A 178 cm male: h ≈ 10.1 inches → IBW ≈ 50 + 2.3 × 10.1 ≈ 73.2 kg.
Health disclaimer
Ideal weight formulas are educational benchmarks—not diagnoses or treatment targets. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing diet, exercise, or medication dosing based on these estimates.