Guidelines for the prevention and therapy of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Aim. To review the literature and provide guidelines for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis. Methods. Review of all randomized controlled trials studying prevention or treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. Results. There is ample evidence in the literature demonstrating that use of supraphysiologic doses of glucocorticoids can lead to significant amounts of bone loss as early as the first 3 to 6 months of use, with devastating consequences. While our understanding of the mechanisms leading to glucocorticoid-induced bone loss is limited, effective therapy for prevention and management is available. Conclusion. Current data show that bisphosphonate therapy is the treatment of choice for the prevention and management of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.