Pronunciation: KREE a teen

What is the most important information I should know about creatine?


What is creatine?

Creatine is a manmade form of a chemical that is normally found in the body. Creatine is also found in meat and fish. Most creatine in the human body is stored in the muscles. Creatine is a source of energy for muscle contraction and is also involved in muscle growth.

Creatine has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid for enhancing athletic performance, and for increasing muscle strength in people with heart failure, muscular dystrophy, and McArdle's disease (a genetic disorder). Creatine may also be possibly effective in treating Parkinson's disease, and gyrate atrophy (a genetic eye disorder that affects the retina and causes vision loss).

Creatine has also been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, or Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS). However, research has shown that creatine may not be effective in treating these conditions.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating high cholesterol, depression, bipolar disorder, or certain muscle diseases.

It is not certain whether creatine is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Creatine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.


Creatine may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking creatine?

You should not use this product if you have:

  • kidney disease; or
  • diabetes.


  • heart disease.

Creatine may not be as effective in improving strength or building muscle in people over 60 years old.

It is not known whether creatine will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product if you are pregnant.

Creatine may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product if you are breast-feeding a baby.


How should I take creatine?


If you choose to use creatine, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label. High doses may cause harmful effects on your heart, kidneys, or liver.

Some athletes have used a "loading method" of taking creatine by using large doses for 2 to 5 days, followed by smaller "maintenance" doses. This method has been used by athletes seeking a short-term increase in athletic ability, such as before a sporting competition.

Another method of creatine use involves taking smaller doses over an extended training period. This method has been used by people seeking endurance for long-term training such as body-building.

Creatine may be more effective if you take it with a meal of carbohydrates. Follow all directions on the product label.

Muscle tissues can only hold a certain amount of creatine. Using more of this product will not increase any effects.

Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, powder, beverages, etc) of creatine at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Drink plenty of fluid to avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. You may be more prone to dehydration, heat stroke, or electrolyte imbalances while you are taking creatine.

Store creatine in a sealed container as directed on the label, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


What happens if I overdose?


Creatine can cause kidney damage when used over a long period or if your daily doses are too high.

What should I avoid while taking creatine?

Avoid drinking caffeine (coffee, tea, soda) or taking herbal stimulants such as ephedra or Ma Huang while you are taking creatine. Combining creatine with these substances may increase your risk of having a stroke or other serious medical problems.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather.

What are the possible side effects of creatine?



  • pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;
  • trouble breathing;
  • swelling, rapid weight gain;

Common side effects may include:

  • nausea, stomach pain;
  • diarrhea;
  • muscle cramps; or
  • weight gain.


What other drugs will affect creatine?


  • antivirals, injected antibiotics;
  • chemotherapy;
  • medicine for bowel disorders;
  • medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection;
  • injectable osteoporosis medication; and

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with creatine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?




Copyright 1996-2015 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.02. Revision date: 10/3/2014.
