Medications

Medications are used to treat osteoporosis.

If residents take medications for osteoporosis, they will also need to take vitamin D supplements, eat a healthy diet rich in calcium (or may need to take a calcium supplement), and be active and exercise regularly.


The Bottom Line About Medications for Long Term Care

Osteoporosis medications have been shown to reduce the risk of fractures in the spine by 30 to 70%. Their ability to prevent fractures at the hip, pelvis and other bones varies according to the type of medication taken.

Osteoporosis medications are an important component of a fracture prevention program and should be considered particularly for residents who:


Residents receiving osteoporosis medications must also:


There are several treatment options that can be taken:


To determine the most appropriate treatment consider:


Medications for consideration in long-term care include:



More about Medications for Long-Term Care


Latest Research on Osteoporosis Medications

  • Osteoporosis medications, taken in conjunction with vitamin D and calcium, have been shown to reduce fractures among older adults living in the community.
  • More studies evaluating osteoporosis medications among long term care residents are needed or are underway.

Our key recommendations…

Our key recommendations for improved osteoporosis and fracture prevention outcomes in older adults at risk for osteoporosis and fractures:

  • Older adults should take 1000-2000 IU of Vitamin D3 supplements daily.
  • Older adults should eat foods rich in calcium and consume an equivalent of 1200mg of calcium daily from their diet.
  • Older adults unable to consume sufficient amounts of calcium from their diet, should take a maximum of 500mg of elemental calcium supplements daily.
  • Older adults who have osteoporosis, have had a previous fracture or are at high risk of sustaining a fracture from a fall should consider being treated with osteoporosis medications.
  • Older adults who have osteoporosis, have had a previous fracture or are at high risk of sustaining a fracture from a fall AND who are mobile, who cannot safely self-transfer, have fallen, and wander due to dementia should wear hip protectors.
  • Older adults should participate in weight bearing cardiovascular exercise, muscle strengthening, and exercises that challenge balance.

Funded by the Government of Ontario - Osteroporosis Long Term Care 2013