In sickness and in health: the widespread application of creatine supplementation

Amino Acids. 2012 Aug;43(2):519-29. doi: 10.1007/s00726-011-1132-7. Epub 2011 Nov 19.

Abstract

There is an extensive and still growing body of the literature supporting the efficacy of creatine (Cr) supplementation. In sports, creatine has been recognized as the most effective nutritional supplement in enhancing exercise tolerance, muscle strength and lean body mass. From a clinical perspective, the application of Cr supplementation is indeed exciting. Evidences of benefits from this supplement have been reported in a broad range of diseases, including myopathies, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, rheumatic diseases, and type 2 diabetes. In addition, after hundreds of published studies and millions of exposures creatine supplementation maintains an excellent safety profile. Thus, we contend that the widespread application of this supplement may benefit athletes, elderly people and various patient populations. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize both the ergogenic and therapeutic effects of Cr supplementation. Furthermore, we reviewed the impact of Cr supplementation on kidney function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Diseases / drug therapy
  • Creatine / metabolism
  • Creatine / pharmacology*
  • Creatine / therapeutic use
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Humans
  • Kidney / drug effects
  • Kidney / physiopathology
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / drug therapy
  • Performance-Enhancing Substances / metabolism
  • Performance-Enhancing Substances / pharmacology*
  • Performance-Enhancing Substances / therapeutic use
  • Resistance Training
  • Sports

Substances

  • Performance-Enhancing Substances
  • Creatine