Time in Range (TIR) is a modern measurement that indicates what percentage of the time the blood sugar level is within the individual target range. In contrast to the HbA1c value, which only shows an average over the last 2-3 months, TIR provides information about the actual stability of blood sugar over the day and night.
Target range and target values
The internationally recommended target range for most adults with diabetes is:
- 70-180 mg/dl (3.9–10.0 mmol/l)
Recommended TIR target values (DDG/ADA 2025/2026):
| patient group | Targeted TIR |
|---|---|
| Adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes | >70% of the time |
| Elderly patients or at high risk of hypo | > 50% of the time |
| Pregnant women with diabetes | > 70% of the time (narrower range 63-140 mg/dl) |
| Children and young people | >70% of the time |
Importance for therapy
TIR is a better predictor of complications than HbA1c alone. Every 10% increase in TIR noticeably reduces the risk of retinopathy, nephropathy and cardiovascular disease.
Additional parameters
- Time Above Range (TAR): Time above 180 mg/dl – Goal: < 25 %
- Time Below Range (TBR): Time below 70 mg/dl – Goal: < 4 % (of which < 1 % below 54 mg/dl)
Further information:
→ Diabetes mellitus – knowledge and overview
→ Why hyporest
→ Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)
Sources
- German Diabetes Society (DDG). S3 guidelines “Technological aids”. As of 2025. Available at: www.deutsche-diabetes-gesellschaft.de/leitlinien.
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1). Available at: diabetesjournals.org.
- Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Federal health reporting – diabetes mellitus in Germany. Berlin 2024.
- International Diabetes Federation (IDF). IDF Diabetes Atlas. 11th edition. Brussels 2025. Available at: diabetesatlas.org.
Important note:
The information in this encyclopedia article is intended solely for general and non-binding information. They do not replace medical advice, diagnosis or therapy. If you have any health questions or complaints, please always consult a doctor or qualified healthcare professional. The content was created with the greatest possible care, but errors cannot be completely ruled out.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
