Creatine is an amino acid made in the liver and stored in muscles. When combined with phosphate, it is a readily available source of energy in the body. In the diet, creatine is present in milk, red meat, and some fish.
(See also Overview of Dietary Supplements.)
Claims for Creatine
People take supplements of creatine to improve physical or athletic performance and to decrease muscle fatigue. Creatine is used medically to improve physical functioning in people with certain muscle disorders.
Evidence for Creatine
Some studies indicate that creatine can increase the amount of work performed with a short maximal effort (for example, in sprinting).
Side Effects of Creatine
Creatine supplements may cause weight gain and may elevate levels of creatine in the urine and blood and cause kidney dysfunction. Minor stomach upset, headache, dehydration, irritability and aggression, edema, and muscle cramps occur occasionally.
Drug Interactions with Creatine
Recommendations for Creatine
Creatine may be a slight help to athletes who need sudden bursts of power but the effects are unlikely to be large. It appears reasonably safe but people who have a history of kidney dysfunction or who are taking medications that affect kidney function should avoid creatine supplements.
More Information
The following English-language resource may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource.
National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Bodybuilding and Performance Enhancement Supplements: What You Need To Know
