ask your pharmacist

back to: pharmacy | ask your pharmacist

How do I choose a creatine product?

Creatine is a dietary supplement that some people claim can build muscle and improve athletic performance. It occurs naturally in the body. Some research studies indicate that creatine may improve performance in certain physical activities, including short sprints and weight lifting. It does not seem to build muscle or improve endurance in activities like distance running or swimming. The response to creatine varies widely among different people.

Creatine products contain the active ingredient creatine monohydrate. Some products also contain other ingredients including herbs and minerals. These added herbs and minerals do not seem to increase creatine's effectiveness. When choosing a dietary supplement, select a product from a reputable company like >GNC or >Twinlab.

Sources:
Williams M.H., J.D. Branch. "Creatine Supplementation and Exercise Performance: An Update," The Journal of the American College of Nutrition 17 (1998).
Juhn, M.S., M. Tarnopolsky. "Potential Side Effects of Oral Creatine Supplementation: A Critical Review," Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine 8 (1998).
Graham A. “Creatine: A Review Of Efficacy And Safety” Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association 39 (1999).
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pharmacists Letter Inc., 2001.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.

This answer prepared 8/01/2001.
This information updated 1/17/2007.