This meta-analysis examines the effects of oral corticosteroids on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk. The study included 66 papers on BMD and 23 papers on fractures. Strong correlations were found between cumulative and daily doses of oral corticosteroids and loss of BMD, as well as increased fracture risk. The risk of fracture increased rapidly after starting oral corticosteroid therapy and decreased upon discontinuation. The risk was independent of underlying disease, age, and gender. The analysis suggests that oral corticosteroid treatment with doses exceeding 5 mg daily leads to reduced BMD and a rapid increase in fracture risk. Early preventive measures against corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis are recommended.This meta-analysis examines the effects of oral corticosteroids on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk. The study included 66 papers on BMD and 23 papers on fractures. Strong correlations were found between cumulative and daily doses of oral corticosteroids and loss of BMD, as well as increased fracture risk. The risk of fracture increased rapidly after starting oral corticosteroid therapy and decreased upon discontinuation. The risk was independent of underlying disease, age, and gender. The analysis suggests that oral corticosteroid treatment with doses exceeding 5 mg daily leads to reduced BMD and a rapid increase in fracture risk. Early preventive measures against corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis are recommended.