Formula
B. J. Devine published this for drug dosing in 1974. Five feet is the baseline, and each inch above it adds 2.3 kg:
Male kg = 50 + 2.3 × inches over 5 feet
The female baseline is 45.5 kg. Height in centimeters is divided by 2.54 to reach inches. The result is a dosing estimate, not a weight to aim for.
Assumptions
- The equation was published for adults around or above 5 feet.
- Frame size, muscle, and health conditions are not inputs.
Worked example
The male equation at 175 cm gives a Devine weight of 70.5 kg.
Input definitions
- Height
- Standing height in centimeters.
Limitations
This is an informational estimate for adults. It is not a diagnosis, a diet plan, or a training prescription. Pregnancy, illness, and medication can change what is appropriate.
Questions
Is this the weight a person should reach?
No. It is a formula used to estimate a dosing weight. It does not set a personal target.
How is this different from BMI?
BMI compares the weight you enter with your height. This page ignores your current weight and only uses height.