Management of osteoporosis and the prevention of fragility fractures

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease characterised by reduced bone mass which is associated with an increased risk of low trauma fractures. Fractures are an important cause of morbidity, and patients who suffer hip and vertebral fractures have a decreased life expectancy.

Remit and target users

This guideline provides recommendations based on current evidence for best practice in the management of osteoporosis and prevention of fractures. It addresses risk factors for fracture, commonly-used tools for fracture risk assessment, approaches to targeting therapy, pharmacological, and non-pharmacological treatments to reduce fracture risk in different patient groups, treatment of painful vertebral fractures and systems of care. The assessment and prevention of falls and surgical management of fractures is not included.

How this guideline was developed

This guideline was developed using a standard methodology based on a systematic review of the evidence. Further details can be found in SIGN 50: A Guideline Developer’s Handbook.

Keeping up to date

This guideline was first issued in 2015, and updated in June 2020 and January 2021. Sections that have been updated are listed in section 1.2.2 of the guideline. Any further updates to the guideline will be noted in the review report.

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