The result of the bone density test you have undergone will help your doctor decide on the appropriate management strategy and on how to prevent fractures. In addition to this measurement, your doctor will also assess your osteoporosis risk factors, your individual probability of sustaining a fracture, as well as your personal medical history and current clinical condition.

The guidelines below apply to postmenopausal women and men over the age of 50.

~ Normal bone density:

Most people with normal bone density (those with a T-score of -1 or higher on the test performed) do not need pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis.

~ Low bone density (osteopenia):

Those with a T-score between -1 and -2.5 belong to this category. These patients should receive pharmacological treatment if there are objective predisposing factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis and fracture. The FRAX tool/algorithm may be used to calculate the patient’s probability of sustaining a hip fracture or another major fracture within the next 10 years. This probability may help in deciding whether or not pharmacological treatment should be initiated.

~ Osteoporosis:

All patients with a T-score of -2.5 or lower are considered osteoporotic. These patients should receive some form of pharmacological treatment.

~ Documented fractures:

All patients diagnosed with a hip fracture or a vertebral fracture should receive pharmacological treatment.