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How to select the doses of vitamin D in the management of osteoporosis

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Abstract

The dose of vitamin D in the management of osteoporosis should be no less than 700–800 IU per day. An optimal dose of vitamin D should raise serum concentrations of 25(OH)D to the desirable range of at least 75 nmol/l. Higher intermittent oral doses of vitamin D may overcome low adherence. Vitamin D supplementation in the management of osteoporosis holds a significant public health potential because of its low cost, excellent tolerability, and combined musculo-skeletal benefits. Fall and fracture prevention with vitamin D is especially appealing in the treatment of older individuals at risk for fall-related fractures. However, bone density, strength, and function benefits with vitamin D include active and inactive subgroups of community-dwelling older men and women. Based on a recent expert panel and supportive evidence presented in this review, serum concentrations of at least 75 nmol/l 25(OH)D will be referred to as desirable. Today, desirable serum 25(OH)D levels of at least 75 nmol/l may only be reached in about one third of US older individuals and even fewer European older individuals. Two main factors discussed in this review may help public health efforts to ensure desirable vitamin D levels for fall and fracture prevention, including (1) a sufficient dose of vitamin D and (2) improved adherence to supplementation.

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Acknowledgement

The author is grateful for the excellent input of three anonymous reviewers. Their comments have added significantly to this review.

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  1. Department of Rheumatology and Institute of Physical Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland

    H. A. Bischoff-Ferrari

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Correspondence to H. A. Bischoff-Ferrari.

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Bischoff-Ferrari, H.A. How to select the doses of vitamin D in the management of osteoporosis. Osteoporos Int 18, 401–407 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00198-006-0293-9

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