The essential role of combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation in the osteoporosis scenario in italy: expert opinion paper

An Italian multidisciplinary working group discussed the current Italian scenario of osteoporosis management during a meeting and highlighted the essential role of calcium and vitamin D supplementation in the prevention of fragility fractures. Purpose This paper aims to review and discuss data on calcium and vitamin D requirements and the role of combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of patients with osteoporosis. Methods The discussion of the experts covered literature data on calcium and vitamin D supplementation, gaps in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, and the role of the primary care physician in identifying and treating patients with osteoporosis. Articles for consideration were identified through PubMed searches using different combinations of pertinent keywords. Results The discussion highlighted that insufficient calcium or vitamin D intake increases the risk of fragility fractures. The experts also drew attention to the essential role of calcium and vitamin D supplementation in achieving an anti-fracture effect and supporting the efficacy of anti-osteoporotic agents without increasing nephrolithiasis and cardiovascular risks. In addition, the discussion underlined the role of the primary care physician in the initial clinical approach to patients with osteoporosis. Conclusions The experts believe that efficient treatment for patients with osteoporosis should include calcium and vitamin D supplementation to achieve adequate levels that are able to inhibit the parathyroid hormone and bone resorption.