[Osteoporosis - Is There An Indication For Vitamin D Supplementation?]

Adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium are fundamental for the treatment of osteoporosis. A normal vitamin D status is required for optimal intestinal calcium absorption. However, general calcium and vitamin D supplementation is not sufficient for prevention of osteoporotic fractures in persons older than 50 years. Nevertheless, vitamin D deficiency should be avoided and corrected. In particular, parts of the population with increased risk for vitamin D deficiency (immobilized or older individuals, swarthy, migrants) should be tested. Secondary causes of vitamin D deficiency should be identified and treated.