Research

Creatine

161 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

37
Meta-analyses
7
Systematic reviews
68
RCTs
49
Other studies
Meta-analyses (23%)
Systematic reviews (4%)
RCTs (42%)
Observational (3%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2026·Frontiers in immunology·Kell Mazzini Ribeiro de Camargo, Alejandro Bruna-Mejías, Juan José Valenzuela-Fuenzalida, et al

Impact of creatine supplementation on inflammation: evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized double-blind placebo trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of creatine supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers in humans. The analysis found no significant effects of creatine on CRP, IL-6, or other inflammatory markers. The certainty of evidence was rated as moderate, with risk of bias due to missing outcome data.

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2025·Nutrients·Fatemeh Kazeminasab, Ali Bahrami Kerchi, Fatemeh Sharafifard, et al

The Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Upper- and Lower-Body Strength and Power: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,937Physical Performance

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of creatine supplementation on upper- and lower-body muscular strength and power in adults. Creatine combined with resistance training significantly improved strength in bench/chest press and squat, as well as muscular power, particularly in younger adults and males. No significant improvements were observed for handgrip or leg press strength. The analysis included 69 studies with 1937 participants.

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2025·Nutrition Reviews·Samantha Marshall, Alexandra Kitzan, Jasmine Wright, et al

Creatine and Cognition in Aging: A Systematic Review of Evidence in Older Adults

Systematic reviewn = 1,542Brain Health

Systematic review of six studies examining creatine supplementation and cognition in older adults. Five studies reported a positive relationship between creatine and cognition, particularly in memory and attention. The review suggests potential cognitive benefits of creatine in healthy older adults, but calls for high-quality clinical trials for further validation.

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2025·The British journal of nutrition·Igor Eckert, Júlia Lima, Andressa Amaral Dariva

Creatine supplementation for treating symptoms of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,093Mood

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 trials with 1093 participants assessing creatine supplementation on depressive symptoms. Found a standardised mean difference of -0.34, suggesting small-to-moderate benefit, but effects were not clinically important and evidence quality was very low. Larger, more rigorous trials are needed.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Raúl Domínguez, Inmaculada López-León, Javier Moreno-Lara, et al

Sport supplementation in competitive swimmers: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 422Physical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies on sports supplementation in competitive swimmers. Creatine showed a significant positive effect on swimming performance, while other supplements like sodium bicarbonate, β-alanine, and caffeine showed potential benefits but require further research.

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2025·BMC nephrology·Elham Kabiri Naeini, Milad Eskandari, Mojgan Mortazavi, et al

Effect of creatine supplementation on kidney function: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 177

Systematic review and meta-analysis of creatine supplementation's effect on kidney function. Creatine was associated with a small, statistically significant increase in serum creatinine, but no significant changes in glomerular filtration rate, suggesting preserved kidney function.

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2025·Journal of dietary supplements·Damoon Ashtary-Larky, Darren G Candow, Scott C Forbes, et al

Creatine Supplementation in Combat Sport Athletes: A Narrative Systematic Review.

Systematic reviewPhysical Performance Recovery -Physique

Narrative systematic review of 19 studies on creatine supplementation in combat sport athletes. Creatine increased body mass, fat-free mass, muscular power, and maximal strength, particularly with longer-term use or resistance training. No significant effects on sport-specific endurance, recovery, or fatigue were found. Creatine is considered safe and effective for enhancing certain aspects of athletic performance.

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2025·PeerJ·Haoda Zhang, Tian Lan, Xueru Yan, et al

Effects of creatine supplementation on muscle strength gains-a meta-analysis and systematic review.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

Meta-analysis and systematic review evaluating the effects of creatine supplementation on muscle strength gains. The study found significant strength gains in the creatine group compared to controls, with untrained individuals and low-dose supplementation combined with high-intensity exercise showing the greatest improvements.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Damoon Ashtary-Larky, Shooka Mohammadi, Leila Hajizadeh, et al

Creatine supplementation and resistance training: a comparison between novice and experienced lifters - a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysique

This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis evaluated the effects of creatine supplementation combined with resistance training on body composition in novice and experienced lifters. Creatine significantly increased fat-free mass and body mass, with trained individuals showing greater, though non-significant, gains in fat-free mass compared to untrained participants.

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2024·JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition·Thomas W Davies, Naomi Watson, James J Pilkington, et al

Creatine supplementation for optimization of physical function in the patient at risk of functional disability: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,076Physical Performance Physique

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 33 RCTs with 1076 participants assessing creatine supplementation in older adults and adults with chronic disease. Creatine improved sit-to-stand performance, upper-body muscle strength, handgrip strength, and lean tissue mass, though evidence quality was low due to high risk of bias.

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2024·Nutrients·Ziyu Wang, Bopeng Qiu, Ruoling Li, et al

Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Muscle Strength Gains in Adults <50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 509Physical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies assessing creatine supplementation combined with resistance training on muscle strength in adults under 50. Creatine significantly increased upper- and lower-body strength, with greater benefits observed in males compared to females.

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2024·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Fereshteh Pashayee-Khamene, Zeinab Heidari, Omid Asbaghi, et al

Creatine supplementation protocols with or without training interventions on body composition: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 143Physique

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 143 RCTs evaluating creatine supplementation on body composition. Creatine increased body mass and fat-free mass while reducing body fat percentage, with greater effects when combined with resistance training.

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2024·Journal of strength and conditioning research·Imtiaz Desai, Michael A Wewege, Matthew D Jones, et al

The Effect of Creatine Supplementation on Resistance Training-Based Changes to Body Composition: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysique

Systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effect of creatine supplementation on body composition changes with resistance training in adults under 50. Creatine increased lean body mass by 1.14 kg and reduced body fat percentage by 0.88% compared to resistance training alone. No differences were found between training status or carbohydrate subgroups.

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2023·Environmental health perspectives·Ahlam K Abuawad, Anne K Bozack, Ana Navas-Acien, et al

The Folic Acid and Creatine Trial: Treatment Effects of Supplementation on Arsenic Methylation Indices and Metabolite Concentrations in Blood in a Bangladeshi Population.

RCTn = 622Nutrition

RCT investigating the effects of folic acid and creatine supplementation on arsenic methylation indices and metabolite concentrations in blood among Bangladeshi adults. Folic acid supplementation lowered blood monomethyl arsenic and increased dimethyl arsenic, while creatine supplementation lowered monomethyl arsenic. The study suggests short-term benefits of folic acid supplementation and highlights the importance of long-term interventions.

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2023·Nutrients·Darren G Candow, Konstantinos Prokopidis, Scott C Forbes, et al

Resistance Exercise and Creatine Supplementation on Fat Mass in Adults < 50 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 266Physique

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies with 266 participants examining the effects of resistance exercise and creatine supplementation on fat mass in adults < 50 years of age. Creatine supplementation with resistance exercise resulted in a very small reduction in body fat percentage, but no significant change in absolute fat mass.

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2023·Medicine and science in sports and exercise·Philip D Chilibeck, Darren G Candow, Julianne J Gordon, et al

A 2-yr Randomized Controlled Trial on Creatine Supplementation during Exercise for Postmenopausal Bone Health.

RCTn = 237Joint Bone Health Physical Performance Physique

A 2-year RCT on creatine supplementation and exercise in 237 postmenopausal women found no effect on bone mineral density but improved some bone geometric properties at the proximal femur. Creatine also reduced walking time and increased lean tissue mass compared to placebo.

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2023·Nutrition reviews·Konstantinos Prokopidis, Panagiotis Giannos, Konstantinos K Triantafyllidis, et al

Effects of creatine supplementation on memory in healthy individuals: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisMental Clarity

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing creatine supplementation's effects on memory in healthy individuals. Creatine improved memory measures compared to placebo, with significant benefits observed in older adults.

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2023·Nutrients·Ryan Burke, A. Piñero, Max Coleman, et al

The Effects of Creatine Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Regional Measures of Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

Systematic review with meta-analysis of RCTs examining the effects of creatine supplementation combined with resistance training on muscle hypertrophy. The analysis found a small effect favoring creatine supplementation for increasing muscle mass, with slightly greater benefits in younger adults.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2023·International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)·S. Nag

Trends in Creatine Supplementation for Athletes: A Systematic Review

Systematic reviewPhysical Performance Brain Health

Systematic review of creatine supplementation research among athletes, highlighting both positive and negative effects on physical and cognitive performance.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2022·Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)·Felipe M Delpino, Lílian M Figueiredo, Scott C Forbes, et al

Influence of age, sex, and type of exercise on the efficacy of creatine supplementation on lean body mass: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Meta-analysisn = 1,192Physique

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs investigating creatine supplementation on lean body mass (LBM) across 35 studies with 1192 participants. Creatine increased LBM by 0.68 kg overall, with greater gains when combined with resistance training. Males showed more favorable responses than females.

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2022·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Mark Glaister, Lauren Rhodes

Short-Term Creatine Supplementation and Repeated Sprint Ability-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 studies on short-term creatine supplementation effects on repeated sprint ability. Creatine increased body mass and mean power output but had no significant effect on peak power, fatigue, or blood lactate concentration.

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2021·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Bethany Northeast, Tom Clifford

The Effect of Creatine Supplementation on Markers of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Intervention Trials.

Meta-analysisn = 278Recovery -

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of creatine supplementation on recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage. Thirteen studies with 278 participants were analyzed. Creatine supplementation did not significantly alter muscle strength, soreness, range of motion, or inflammation, but attenuated creatine kinase activity at 48 hours post-exercise. High heterogeneity was noted across studies.

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2021·Nutrients·Ellem Eduarda Pinheiro Dos Santos, Rodrigo Cappato de Araújo, Darren G Candow, et al

Efficacy of Creatine Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Muscle Strength and Muscle Mass in Older Females: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 211Physical Performance Joint Bone Health

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 RCTs with 211 participants examining creatine supplementation combined with resistance training in older females. Creatine significantly increased upper-body strength, with no effect on lower-body strength or muscle mass overall. Sub-analyses showed increased strength in studies lasting 24 weeks or more.

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2021·BMC geriatrics·MoonKi Choi, Hayeon Kim, Juyeon Bae

Does the combination of resistance training and a nutritional intervention have a synergic effect on muscle mass, strength, and physical function in older adults? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the synergistic effects of nutritional interventions combined with resistance training on muscle mass, strength, and physical function in older adults. The analysis included 22 studies and found no significant differences in outcomes except for creatine, which showed significant effects on lean body mass.

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2021·Clinical nutrition ESPEN·Felipe Mendes Delpino, Lílian Munhoz Figueiredo

Does creatine supplementation improve glycemic control and insulin resistance in healthy and diabetic patients? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisNutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of creatine supplementation effects on diabetes parameters in humans. Nine studies included, with five showing some benefit. Meta-analysis found no significant effect on fasting blood glucose or insulin resistance. Insufficient evidence to confirm positive effects on diabetes parameters.

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2021·Nutrients·Scott C Forbes, Darren G Candow, Sergej M Ostojic, et al

Meta-Analysis Examining the Importance of Creatine Ingestion Strategies on Lean Tissue Mass and Strength in Older Adults.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance Physique

Meta-analysis examining creatine supplementation strategies in older adults during resistance training. Creatine, regardless of dosing strategy, augments lean tissue mass and strength compared to placebo. Creatine-loading followed by lower-dose creatine increased chest press strength, while higher-dose creatine improved leg press strength. Creatine supplementation only on training days also significantly increased lean tissue mass and strength.

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2021·Journal of food biochemistry·Yue Jiaming, Mohammad Hossein Rahimi

Creatine supplementation effect on recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisRecovery

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effect of creatine supplementation on recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage. Pooled data from nine studies showed that creatine significantly reduced creatine kinase concentration and improved muscle function compared to placebo, although effects on lactate dehydrogenase concentration were not significant overall. The findings suggest creatine is beneficial for reducing muscle damage and improving recovery post-exercise.

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2021·Journal of strength and conditioning research·Carly Fazio, Craig L Elder, Margaret M Harris

Efficacy of Alternative Forms of Creatine Supplementation on Improving Performance and Body Composition in Healthy Subjects: A Systematic Review.

Systematic reviewPhysical Performance -Physique -

Systematic review of 17 RCTs examining alternative forms of creatine supplementation on exercise performance and body composition. No consistent performance enhancement was found among alternative forms compared to placebo. Creatine monohydrate remains the most studied and cost-effective form.

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2020·European journal of nutrition·Anne K Bozack, Caitlin G Howe, Megan N Hall, et al

Betaine and choline status modify the effects of folic acid and creatine supplementation on arsenic methylation in a randomized controlled trial of Bangladeshi adults.

RCTn = 622

RCT of 622 Bangladeshi adults examining the effects of folic acid and creatine supplementation on arsenic methylation. The study found that the effects of supplementation on arsenic methylation were greater among individuals with low betaine and choline status.

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2020·The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences·Lucas Peixoto Sales, Ana Jéssica Pinto, Samara Ferrari Rodrigues, et al

Creatine Supplementation (3 g/d) and Bone Health in Older Women: A 2-Year, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 200Joint Bone Health -

A 2-year randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 200 postmenopausal women with osteopenia assessed the effects of creatine supplementation (3 g/d) on bone health. The study found no improvement in bone mineral density, bone markers, or muscle function with creatine supplementation.

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2020·Journal of geriatric physical therapy (2001)·Aaron Stares, Mona Bains

The Additive Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Exercise Training in an Aging Population: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Systematic reviewJoint Bone Health Physical Performance Brain Health -

Systematic review of RCTs assessing creatine supplementation combined with exercise in older adults. Creatine may improve skeletal muscle health and potentially increase bone mineral density with long-term use, but shows no additive effects on mental health over exercise alone. Effects are more consistent in older women.

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2020·International journal of environmental research and public health·Mojtaba Kaviani, Keely Shaw, Philip D Chilibeck

Benefits of Creatine Supplementation for Vegetarians Compared to Omnivorous Athletes: A Systematic Review.

Systematic reviewPhysical Performance Brain Health Physique

Systematic review of creatine supplementation effects on vegetarians, showing increased muscle creatine levels, lean tissue mass, muscular strength, endurance, and brain function. Mixed results on exercise performance improvement compared to omnivores.

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2017·CNS & neurological disorders drug targets·Attia, Hussien Ahmed, Mohamed Gadelkarim, et al

Meta-Analysis of Creatine for Neuroprotection Against Parkinson's Disease.

Meta-analysisn = 1,935Brain Health -

This meta-analysis synthesized evidence from RCTs evaluating the efficacy of creatine for patients with Parkinson's disease. The analysis included three RCTs with a total of 1935 participants and found no significant effect of creatine on motor functions or quality of life as measured by UPDRS scores.

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2017·Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)·Charlotte Lanhers, Bruno Pereira, Geraldine Naughton, et al

Creatine Supplementation and Upper Limb Strength Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,138Physical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 53 studies on creatine supplementation's effect on upper limb strength performance. Creatine was found to be effective in improving strength performance in exercises shorter than 3 minutes, independent of population characteristics or supplementation protocols.

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2015·Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)·Charlotte Lanhers, Bruno Pereira, Geraldine Naughton, et al

Creatine Supplementation and Lower Limb Strength Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.

Meta-analysisn = 646Physical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analyses of 60 RCTs evaluating creatine supplementation on lower limb strength performance. Creatine was found effective in improving strength performance in exercises lasting less than 3 minutes, with significant effect sizes for squat, leg press, and quadriceps, independent of population characteristics or supplementation protocols.

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2014·Medicine and science in sports and exercise·Michaela C Devries, Stuart M Phillips

Creatine supplementation during resistance training in older adults-a meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 357Physical Performance Joint Bone Health

Meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials involving 357 older adults undergoing resistance training with creatine supplementation. Creatine supplementation increased total body mass, fat-free mass, and improved chest press and leg press strength, as well as performance on the 30-s chair stand test, compared to resistance training alone.

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2013·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Rudolf A Kley, Mark A Tarnopolsky, Matthias Vorgerd

Creatine for treating muscle disorders.

Meta-analysisn = 364Physical Performance

This meta-analysis of 14 trials with 364 participants evaluated creatine treatment for muscle disorders. Creatine increased muscle strength in muscular dystrophies and improved functional performance in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. However, it did not significantly improve muscle strength in metabolic myopathies and high-dose creatine impaired activities of daily living and increased muscle pain in McArdle disease.

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2012·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Daniel M Pastula, Dan H Moore, Richard S Bedlack

Creatine for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease.

Meta-analysisn = 386

Systematic review and meta-analysis of three trials involving 386 participants with ALS, comparing creatine (5 to 10 g per day) to placebo. The analysis found no statistically significant effect of creatine on survival, ALSFRS-R progression, or percent predicted FVC progression.

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2011·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Deborah L Horjus, Inge Oudman, Gert A van Montfrans, et al

Creatine and creatine analogues in hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Meta-analysisn = 1,474Heart Health

Meta-analysis of 11 trials with 1474 patients evaluating creatine and creatine analogues in heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and myocardial infarction. The review found inconclusive evidence on mortality and myocardial infarction progression, but some evidence of improvement in dysrhythmia and dyspnoea.

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2011·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Rudolf A Kley, Mark A Tarnopolsky, Matthias Vorgerd

Creatine for treating muscle disorders.

Meta-analysisn = 364Physical Performance

This meta-analysis of 14 trials with 364 participants evaluated creatine treatment in muscle disorders. Creatine increased muscle strength in muscular dystrophies and improved functional performance in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. However, it did not significantly improve muscle strength in metabolic myopathies and high-dose creatine impaired ADL and increased muscle pain in McArdle disease.

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2010·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Daniel M Pastula, Dan H Moore, Richard S Bedlack

Creatine for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease.

Meta-analysisn = 386Longevity -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of three trials involving 386 ALS patients randomized to creatine or placebo. Creatine at doses of 5 to 10 g per day showed no statistically significant effect on survival, ALS functional rating scores, or forced vital capacity progression.

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2007·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·R A Kley, M Vorgerd, M A Tarnopolsky

Creatine for treating muscle disorders.

Meta-analysisn = 266Physical Performance

Meta-analysis of 12 trials with 266 participants evaluating creatine supplementation in hereditary muscle diseases. Creatine improved muscle strength in muscular dystrophies but not in metabolic myopathies. High-dose creatine increased muscle pain in glycogen storage disease type V.

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2026·Experimental gerontology·Julio Fernandez-Garrido, Ezequiel G Martin, Angel Saez-Berlanga, et al

Effects of high-load, velocity-intentional variable resistance training combined with creatine supplementation on neuroplasticity, oxidative stress, inflammation, physical function, cognitive performance and quality of life in older adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 103Brain Health Inflammation Physical Performance Longevity

RCT of 103 older adults comparing high-load, velocity-intentional resistance training with creatine or placebo supplementation. Creatine supplementation improved neurocognitive biomarkers, oxidative/inflammatory profiles, strength, functional performance, and quality of life. Aquatic training was particularly effective for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

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2026·Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)·Aleksandro Belo Ferreira, Larissa Carvalho Caser Pinto, Nadia Mie Uwagoya Taira, et al

Creatine supplementation modifies fat deposition in arm and leg tissues in individuals with Down syndrome.

RCTn = 50Physique

Prospective, randomized, double-blind study of 50 individuals with Down syndrome receiving creatine supplementation or placebo. Creatine group showed significant reduction in regional fat percentage in arms and legs without adverse effects on renal or hepatic biomarkers. No significant changes in total fat or lean mass.

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2025·Nutritional Neuroscience·Sergej M. Ostojic, Sonja Baltic, D. Zanini

Dietary creatine intake and mental health among the Korean population

Cross-sectionaln = 5,257Mood Mental Clarity

Cross-sectional study using data from the 2022 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to investigate the relationship between daily creatine consumption and mental health indicators. Higher dietary creatine intake was associated with lower depression scores, reduced prevalence of depression, and lower odds of generalized anxiety disorder, although causality cannot be inferred.

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2024·Food Science & Nutrition·Sergej M. Ostojic, T. H. Stea, S. Ellery, et al

Association between dietary intake of creatine and female reproductive health: Evidence from NHANES 2017–2020

Observationaln = 4,522Womens Health

Observational study using NHANES data to investigate the relationship between dietary creatine intake and reproductive health indices in US women. Higher dietary creatine intake was associated with a lower risk of irregular menstrual periods and other reproductive health issues.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2024·Clinical nutrition ESPEN·Adrian Aron, Eryn J Landrum, Adam D Schneider, et al

Effects of acute creatine supplementation on cardiac and vascular responses in older men; a randomized controlled trial.

RCTHeart Health

RCT investigating the impact of short-term creatine supplementation on cardiac and vascular health in older men. Creatine supplementation improved the cardio-ankle vascular index and showed nonsignificant improvements in systolic blood pressure, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular health.

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2024·Nutrients·Ana Clara B Marini, Raquel M Schincaglia, Darren G Candow, et al

Effect of Creatine Supplementation on Body Composition and Malnutrition-Inflammation Score in Hemodialysis Patients: An Exploratory 1-Year, Balanced, Double-Blind Design.

RCTPhysique Inflammation -

Exploratory 1-year RCT evaluating creatine supplementation in hemodialysis patients. Creatine increased fat-free mass, skeletal muscle mass index, and intracellular water, but did not change the Malnutrition-Inflammation Score.

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2023·BMC medicine·Julia Fabienne Sandkühler, Xenia Kersting, Annika Faust, et al

The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive performance-a randomised controlled study.

RCTn = 123Mental Clarity

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive performance in 123 participants, including vegetarians and omnivores. The study found a small beneficial effect of creatine on cognitive tasks, with significance bordering for the Backward Digit Span test but not for Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices. Side effects were more common with creatine than placebo.

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2021·Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV·V Turlier, M-S Darde, J Loustau, et al

Assessment of the effects of a hair lotion in women with acute telogen effluvium: a randomized controlled study.

RCTn = 100Skin Hair Health

RCT assessing a hair lotion containing creatine, acetyl tetrapeptide-2, and B vitamins in women with acute telogen effluvium. The intervention group showed significant improvements in the anagen to telogen ratio and hair density compared to controls, indicating accelerated recovery from hair loss.

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2019·Nutrients·Juan Mielgo-Ayuso, Julio Calleja-Gonzalez, Diego Marqués-Jiménez, et al

Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Athletic Performance in Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of creatine supplementation effects on soccer players' performance. Creatine showed no beneficial effects on aerobic and phosphagen metabolism performance tests but demonstrated significant positive effects on anaerobic performance, particularly in anaerobic power tests like the Wingate test.

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2019·Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation·Alexandre de Souza E Silva, Adriana Pertille, Carolina Gabriela Reis Barbosa, et al

Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysis

Systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the effects of creatine supplementation on renal function. Analysis of 15 studies qualitatively and 6 quantitatively found that creatine supplementation did not significantly alter serum creatinine or plasma urea levels, indicating no renal damage in the studied amounts and durations.

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2014·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Yousheng Xiao, Man Luo, Hongye Luo, et al

Creatine for Parkinson's disease.

Meta-analysisn = 194

Meta-analysis of two RCTs with 194 patients comparing creatine to placebo for Parkinson's disease. No clear evidence of effect on motor function, activities of daily living, or quality of life. Some adverse events reported, but not attributed to creatine. Evidence limited by risk of bias and small sample sizes.

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2010·Respirology (Carlton, Vic.)·Fahad Al-Ghimlas, David C Todd

Creatine supplementation for patients with COPD receiving pulmonary rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 151Physical Performance -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing creatine supplementation in COPD patients undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. Creatine did not improve exercise capacity, muscle strength, or health-related quality of life compared to placebo. The studies had important limitations, indicating a need for further research.

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2009·Journal of athletic training·Rebecca M Lopez, Douglas J Casa, Brendon P McDermott, et al

Does creatine supplementation hinder exercise heat tolerance or hydration status? A systematic review with meta-analyses.

Meta-analysis

Systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the effect of creatine supplementation on exercise heat tolerance and hydration status. The review found no evidence that creatine supplementation hinders heat dissipation or negatively affects body fluid balance in athletes exercising in the heat.

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2026·Biogerontology·Rafael Ramos-Hernández, Juan Mielgo-Ayuso, Diego Fernández-Lázaro, et al

Creatine plus β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate supplementation is associated with preserved glutathione redox-balance and redox-function associations in older adults: a secondary analysis of a randomized crossover trial.

RCTn = 30

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial in 30 physically active older adults examined the effects of creatine plus HMB supplementation on oxidative stress biomarkers and redox indices. The supplementation was associated with nominal modulation of glutathione-centered redox balance, but effects did not remain significant after FDR adjustment. Exploratory analyses suggested weak associations between redox indices and functional measures.

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2026·Nutrients·Ali Gordji-Nejad, Andreas Matusch, Lea Hengstler, et al

Single-Dose Creatine Reduces Sleep Deprivation-Induced Deterioration in Cognitive Performance.

RCTn = 29Mental Clarity Focus

RCT with 29 healthy subjects testing the effects of a single dose of 0.2 g/kg creatine monohydrate on cognitive performance during 21 hours of sleep deprivation. Creatine reduced deterioration in logical and numerical tasks, language-related processing speed, and the Psychomotor Vigilance Test, with females benefiting more than males.

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2026·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·María Soler Hurtado, Moea Treguier, Ángel González-de-la-Flor, et al

Effectiveness of a soccer injury prevention program based on creatine supplementation and internal load monitoring: a randomized controlled pilot study.

RCTn = 23Physical Performance Joint Bone Health

A 14-week randomized controlled pilot trial with 23 amateur soccer players investigated creatine supplementation's effect on musculoskeletal injury prevention. Creatine reduced injury incidence and improved strength and jump performance, suggesting its potential in soccer injury-prevention programs.

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2025·International journal of sports physiology and performance·Menghao Li, Mohsen Sheykhlouvand

Effects of Combined Versus Single Supplementation of Creatine, Beta-Alanine, and L-Citrulline During Short Sprint Interval Training on Basketball Players' Performance: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 48Physical Performance

This double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT investigated the effects of creatine, beta-alanine, and L-citrulline supplementation during short sprint interval training on basketball players' performance over 28 days. All supplement groups showed significant improvements in physical and physiological performance compared to placebo, with greater changes observed in the supplement groups.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Junyu Wu, Peng Qiu, Youqiang Li

Acute creatine supplementation enhances technical performance in adolescent basketball players under cognitive-motor dual-task condition.

RCTn = 40Physical Performance Mental Clarity

RCT investigating the impact of acute creatine supplementation on technical performance in 40 adolescent basketball players under single-task and cognitive-motor dual-task conditions. Creatine improved dribbling, passing, and shooting under CMDT conditions, reduced heart rate and perceived exertion, and enhanced subtraction task accuracy during shooting.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Mohammadyasin Lak, Scott C Forbes, Damoon Ashtary-Larky, et al

Does creatine cause hair loss? A 12-week randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 38

This 12-week randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on androgen levels and hair follicle health in 38 resistance-trained males. The study found no significant differences in DHT levels, DHT-to-testosterone ratio, or hair growth parameters between the creatine and placebo groups, providing evidence against the claim that creatine contributes to hair loss.

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2025·Journal of dietary supplements·Joel Puente-Fernández, Eneko Larumbe-Zabala, Justin Roberts, et al

Effect of a Multi-Ingredient Post-Workout Dietary Supplement on Body Composition and Muscle Strength - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 20Physique Physical Performance

RCT comparing a multi-ingredient post-workout supplement to a carbohydrate-only comparator in 20 aging, physically active individuals over a 6-week resistance training program. The multi-ingredient supplement increased fat-free mass, reduced fat mass, and improved waist circumference and vertical jump performance compared to baseline and the comparator.

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2024·Nutrients·Mats I Nilsson, Donald Xhuti, Nicoletta Maria de Maat, et al

Obesity and Metabolic Disease Impair the Anabolic Response to Protein Supplementation and Resistance Exercise: A Retrospective Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial with Implications for Aging, Sarcopenic Obesity, and Weight Management.

RCTn = 32Physical Performance Joint Bone Health Physique

Retrospective analysis of a randomized clinical trial examining the anabolic response to protein-based, multi-ingredient supplementation (MIS) and resistance exercise in older males. The study found that a whey/casein-based MIS was more effective than a collagen-based alternative in improving lean mass, strength, and performance, particularly in individuals with obesity and metabolic syndrome.

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2024·Nutrients·Juli T Souza, Marcos F Minicucci, Natália C Ferreira, et al

Influence of CReatine Supplementation on mUScle Mass and Strength After Stroke (ICaRUS Stroke Trial): A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 30Physical Performance -Inflammation

RCT of creatine supplementation in 30 older stroke patients during hospitalization. Creatine did not influence functional capacity, strength, or muscle mass during the first 7 days or outcomes 90 days after stroke. It decreased progranulin levels, suggesting a potential new action of creatine.

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2024·Nutrients·Álvaro Huerta Ojeda, Carlos Jorquera-Aguilera

Combined Impact of Creatine, Caffeine, and Variable Resistance on Repeated Sprint Ability in Young Soccer Players.

RCTn = 28Physical Performance -

RCT evaluating the combined impact of creatine, caffeine, and variable resistance on repeated sprint ability in 28 young soccer players. The study found no significant summative effect of the three ergogenic aids on physical performance.

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2024·Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports·Lukas Moesgaard, Søren Jessen, Peter Møller Christensen, et al

No additive effect of creatine, caffeine, and sodium bicarbonate on intense exercise performance in endurance-trained individuals.

RCTn = 23Physical Performance

RCT with 23 endurance-trained individuals testing the additive effects of creatine, caffeine, and sodium bicarbonate on exercise performance. Creatine improved 15-s sprint power output, caffeine improved 6-min time trial performance, but no additive effects were observed when combined.

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2024·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·David Barranco-Gil, Lidia B Alejo, Carlos Revuelta, et al

High-dose short-term creatine supplementation without beneficial effects in professional cyclists: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 23Physical Performance -

RCT assessing high-dose short-term creatine supplementation in 23 professional U23 cyclists during a 6-day training camp. No significant beneficial effects were found on recovery, body composition, or performance indicators.

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2024·Nutrients·Ariel J Aguiar Bonfim Cruz, Samantha J Brooks, Katelyn Kleinkopf, et al

Creatine Improves Total Sleep Duration Following Resistance Training Days versus Non-Resistance Training Days among Naturally Menstruating Females.

RCTn = 21Sleep

Double-blind, randomized controlled trial with 21 naturally menstruating females examining the effects of creatine supplementation on sleep. Creatine increased total sleep duration on resistance training days compared to placebo, with no significant changes in chronic sleep or PSQI scores.

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2024·Nutrients·Emily J Parsowith, Matt S Stock, Olivia Kocuba, et al

Impact of Short-Term Creatine Supplementation on Muscular Performance among Breast Cancer Survivors.

RCTn = 19Physical Performance -

Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT investigating the effects of short-term creatine supplementation on muscular performance in 19 female breast cancer survivors. No significant effects were observed on various measures of muscular performance after seven days of supplementation.

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2024·Journal of nutritional science and vitaminology·Jelena Slankamenac, Marijana Ranisavljev, Nikola Todorovic, et al

Eight-Week Creatine-Glucose Supplementation Alleviates Clinical Features of Long COVID.

RCTn = 15Energy Mental Clarity

RCT investigating the effects of 8-week creatine supplementation with and without glucose on long COVID symptoms. Creatine and creatine-glucose supplementation significantly elevated creatine levels in the brain and reduced symptoms such as body aches, difficulties concentrating, and headache compared to placebo.

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2024·Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias·Edilson Tadeu F Furtado, João Paulo L DE Oliveira, Isabela S B Pereira, et al

Short term creatine loading improves strength endurance even without changing maximal strength, RPE, fatigue index, blood lactate, and mode state.

RCTn = 12Physical Performance

RCT with 12 strength-trained men evaluating creatine supplementation effects on maximal strength and strength endurance. Creatine loading for five days improved strength endurance, allowing more repetitions and greater total work, but did not change maximal strength, blood lactate, RPE, fatigue index, or mood state.

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2023·Nutrients·Kaia Elstad, Conley Malone, Joel Luedke, et al

The Effects of Protein and Carbohydrate Supplementation, with and without Creatine, on Occupational Performance in Firefighters.

RCTn = 30Physical Performance

RCT assessing the effects of protein and carbohydrate supplementation, with and without creatine, on occupational performance in 30 male firefighters. The Creatine group showed greater improvement in completion time for rescue and forcible entry tests compared to the ProCarb group, indicating enhanced performance in high-intensity, repetitive actions.

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2023·Nutrients·Sam R Moore, Amanda N Gordon, Hannah E Cabre, et al

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Changes in Fluid Distribution across Menstrual Phases with Creatine Supplementation.

RCTn = 30

This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of creatine loading on body mass and fluid markers across the menstrual cycle in 30 moderately active females. Creatine supplementation led to significant increases in total body water, extracellular fluid, and intracellular fluid during the luteal phase, without changes in body weight.

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2023·The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness·Emily A Buck, Michael J Saunders, Elizabeth S Edwards, et al

Body composition measured by multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance following creatine supplementation.

RCTn = 27Physique

RCT with 27 young adults examining the effect of creatine monohydrate supplementation on body composition. Creatine increased fat-free mass and total body water as measured by SF-BIA, MF-BIA, and DEXA.

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2023·Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme·Rayssa Sousa-Silva, Jason M Cholewa, Kassiana de Araújo Pessôa, et al

Creatine supplementation combined with blood flow restriction training enhances muscle thickness and performance: a randomized, placebo-controlled, and double-blind study.

RCTn = 17Physical Performance Physique

This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study compared the effects of 8-week creatine supplementation versus placebo on muscle strength, thickness, endurance, and body composition in 17 healthy males. Creatine supplementation promoted increases in muscle thickness and performance, particularly when combined with blood flow restriction training.

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2022·Current Developments in Nutrition·H. Clarke, Neda S Akhavan, R. Hickner, et al

The Effect of 4-Week Creatine Supplementation on Lipid Profile in Older Adults

RCTn = 12Heart Health Nutrition

This study investigated the effect of 4 weeks of creatine monohydrate supplementation on lipid and glucose levels in 12 older adults using a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. Creatine supplementation significantly improved triglycerides and glucose levels but did not significantly change cholesterol, LDL, HDL, or non-HDL cholesterol levels.

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2021·Nutrients·Wagner Jorge Ribeiro Domingues, Raphael Mendes Ritti-Dias, Gabriel Grizzo Cucato, et al

Effect of Creatine Supplementation on Functional Capacity and Muscle Oxygen Saturation in Patients with Symptomatic Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Pilot Study of a Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 29Physical Performance -

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on functional capacity and muscle oxygen saturation in patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. The study found that short- and long-term creatine supplementation did not significantly influence functional capacity or calf muscle oxygen saturation parameters.

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2021·Journal of dietary supplements·Avery Pakulak, Darren G Candow, Julia Totosy de Zepetnek, et al

Effects of Creatine and Caffeine Supplementation During Resistance Training on Body Composition, Strength, Endurance, Rating of Perceived Exertion and Fatigue in Trained Young Adults.

RCTn = 28Physique Physical Performance -

RCT examining the effects of creatine and caffeine supplementation during resistance training on body composition and muscle performance in 28 trained young adults. Creatine supplementation resulted in a small improvement in knee extensor muscle thickness, while no other significant differences were observed between groups.

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2021·International journal of environmental research and public health·Jose Manuel Jurado-Castro, Julián Campos-Pérez, M Ángeles Vilches-Redondo, et al

Morning versus Evening Intake of Creatine in Elite Female Handball Players.

RCTn = 14Physical Performance Physique

Single-blind study of 14 elite female handball players comparing morning versus evening creatine supplementation. After 12 weeks, both groups showed decreased fat percentage, increased body weight and body water, and improved performance, with no significant difference between morning and evening intake.

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2020·Nutrients·Scotty Mills, Darren G Candow, Scott C Forbes, et al

Effects of Creatine Supplementation during Resistance Training Sessions in Physically Active Young Adults.

RCTn = 22Physical Performance Joint Bone Health

RCT examining the effects of creatine supplementation during resistance training in 22 physically active young adults. The creatine group showed significant increases in muscle strength and endurance compared to placebo, suggesting creatine is effective for enhancing physical performance.

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2015·The Journal of physiology·Renato Tavares dos Santos Pereira, Felipe Augusto Dörr, Ernani Pinto, et al

Can creatine supplementation form carcinogenic heterocyclic amines in humans?

RCT

This study investigated the effects of low and high doses of creatine supplementation on the formation of carcinogenic heterocyclic amines (HCAs) in healthy humans. The results showed that creatine supplementation, whether acute or chronic, did not significantly increase HCA formation, suggesting diet as the main factor for HCA presence.

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2014·Neurology·Herminia D Rosas, Gheorghe Doros, Sona Gevorkian, et al

PRECREST: a phase II prevention and biomarker trial of creatine in at-risk Huntington disease.

RCTn = 64

Phase II RCT assessing the safety and tolerability of high-dose creatine in 64 premanifest and at-risk individuals for Huntington disease. The study found creatine to be safe and tolerable, with potential evidence of disease modification through neuroimaging showing treatment-related slowing of cortical and striatal atrophy.

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2014·Experimental gerontology·Bruno Gualano, André Regis Macedo, Christiano Robles Rodrigues Alves, et al

Creatine supplementation and resistance training in vulnerable older women: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

RCTn = 60Physical Performance Joint Bone Health -

A 24-week double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial examined creatine supplementation with or without resistance training in vulnerable older women. The CR+RT group showed significant improvements in muscle strength and appendicular lean mass compared to other groups, but no significant changes in bone mass or serum bone markers.

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2014·Molecular genetics and metabolism·Mary Dunbar, Sravan Jaggumantri, Michael Sargent, et al

Treatment of X-linked creatine transporter (SLC6A8) deficiency: systematic review of the literature and three new cases.

Systematic reviewn = 28Brain Health

Systematic review and case series of 28 patients with X-linked creatine transporter deficiency treated with creatine, arginine, and/or glycine supplementation. 36% of patients showed response to treatment, with increased cerebral creatine and improved clinical parameters. Early treatment initiation before nine years of age was associated with better outcomes.

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2013·Arthritis care & research·Christiano R R Alves, Bianca M Santiago, Fernanda R Lima, et al

Creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTPhysical Performance

A 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia patients. Creatine increased muscle phosphorylcreatine content and improved muscle strength, with no significant changes in aerobic conditioning, pain, cognitive function, quality of sleep, or quality of life.

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2012·Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases·D. Cheillan, M. J. Curt, G. Briand, et al

Screening for primary creatine deficiencies in French patients with unexplained neurological symptoms

Observationaln = 6,353

Screening study of 6,353 patients with unexplained neurological symptoms for primary creatine disorder (PCD) in French hospitals. Identified six GAMT and ten SLC6A8 deficient patients, with a prevalence of 0.25% for PCD in this population. Seven new PCD-causing mutations were discovered.

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2010·The British journal of nutrition·David Benton, Rachel Donohoe

The influence of creatine supplementation on the cognitive functioning of vegetarians and omnivores.

RCTn = 128Mental Clarity

RCT examining the influence of creatine supplementation on cognitive functioning in young adult females, comparing vegetarians and omnivores. Creatine supplementation improved memory in vegetarians but did not affect verbal fluency and vigilance. It decreased variability in responses to a choice reaction-time task regardless of dietary style.

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2006·Physiology & behavior·T McMorris, R C Harris, A N Howard, et al

Creatine supplementation, sleep deprivation, cortisol, melatonin and behavior.

RCTMental Clarity

RCT examining the effects of creatine supplementation and sleep deprivation on cognitive and psychomotor performance, mood, and salivary cortisol and melatonin. Creatine group showed significant improvement in central executive task performance at 36 hours compared to placebo, with no significant differences in other variables.

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2005·Annals of neurology·Diana M Escolar, Gunnar Buyse, Erik Henricson, et al

CINRG randomized controlled trial of creatine and glutamine in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

RCTn = 50

RCT testing the efficacy and safety of glutamine and creatine in 50 ambulant boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy over 6 months. No statistically significant effect on muscle strength was found, but a disease-modifying effect cannot be excluded. Both substances were well tolerated.

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2004·Neurology·J M Shefner, M E Cudkowicz, D Schoenfeld, et al

A clinical trial of creatine in ALS.

RCTn = 104

A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on 104 ALS patients evaluated the efficacy of creatine supplementation. Creatine was well tolerated but showed no benefit in muscle strength or other outcome measures. The study suggests any beneficial effect of creatine in ALS is likely small.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Diego A. Bonilla, Drew E. Gonzalez, Gustavo Humeres, et al

Safety of creatine supplementation: a scientometrics analysis on the impact of the ‘Creatine For Health’ initiative and introduction to CREAS

Study

The paper conducts a scientometrics analysis to assess the impact of the 'Creatine for Health' initiative on public perceptions of creatine supplementation. It uses big data text analysis from YouTube and Twitter/X to evaluate sentiment, finding that discussions are generally neutral or slightly positive, with some strong negative sentiments. The study highlights the role of social media in bridging the gap between researchers and the public.

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2025·PloS one·Waldo Bernales-Delmon, Simón Schulz, Iván Guglielmi, et al

Oral creatine in hemodialysis patients increases physical functional capacity and muscle mass, an open label study.

StudyPhysical Performance

Open label study investigating creatine supplementation (5g/day) for eight weeks in adult patients on chronic hemodialysis. Results showed improvements in physical functionality, skeletal muscle mass, fat-free mass, and phase angle, suggesting creatine may help mitigate morbidity in this population.

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2025·Frontiers in Nutrition·Baohua Zheng, Zhicheng Huang, Zhiwei Wang, et al

Association of dietary creatine intake from meat protein sources with different types of intestinal problems: insights from NHANES 2005–2010

ObservationalGut Health

This study used NHANES 2005–2010 data to examine the association between dietary creatine intake and gut health, specifically chronic constipation and diarrhea. Higher dietary creatine intake was associated with a 19% lower risk of chronic constipation, particularly in males, younger individuals, and those without cardiovascular disease, while no significant association was found with chronic diarrhea.

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2019·Fundamental & clinical pharmacology·Diogo Van Bavel, Roger de Moraes, Eduardo Tibirica

Effects of dietary supplementation with creatine on homocysteinemia and systemic microvascular endothelial function in individuals adhering to vegan diets.

RCTn = 49Heart Health Inflammation

RCT investigating the effects of creatine supplementation on homocysteine levels and microvascular function in 49 strict vegan subjects. Creatine supplementation reduced plasma homocysteine levels, increased folic acid levels, and improved microvascular reactivity, particularly in hyperhomocysteinemic individuals.

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2019·Annals of vascular surgery·Wagner Jorge Ribeiro Domingues, Raphael Mendes Ritti-Dias, Gabriel Grizzo Cucato, et al

Does Creatine Supplementation Affect Renal Function in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease? A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-controlled, Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 29

RCT of 29 patients with peripheral arterial disease assessing the effects of 8 weeks of creatine supplementation on renal function. No significant differences were found between creatine and placebo groups for serum creatinine, creatinine excretion rate, or creatinine clearance, indicating creatine supplementation is safe for renal function in this population.

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2018·The British journal of nutrition·Laura Blancquaert, Audrey Baguet, Tine Bex, et al

Changing to a vegetarian diet reduces the body creatine pool in omnivorous women, but appears not to affect carnitine and carnosine homeostasis: a randomised trial.

RCTn = 40Nutrition

This randomized trial investigated the effects of a vegetarian diet on creatine, carnitine, and carnosine homeostasis in 40 omnivorous women over 6 months. Plasma and muscle creatine levels declined in the vegetarian group without supplementation, while creatine supplementation ameliorated this decline. Carnitine and carnosine homeostasis were unaffected by the diet change.

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2018·Nutrients·Chia-Chi Wang, Chu-Chun Fang, Ying-Hsian Lee, et al

Effects of 4-Week Creatine Supplementation Combined with Complex Training on Muscle Damage and Sport Performance.

RCTn = 30Physical Performance Recovery

RCT evaluating the effects of 4-week creatine supplementation combined with complex training on sport performance and muscle damage biomarkers in 30 explosive athletes. Creatine supplementation improved maximal muscular strength and reduced muscle damage compared to placebo.

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2015·Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme·Darren G Candow, Emelie Vogt, Sarah Johannsmeyer, et al

Strategic creatine supplementation and resistance training in healthy older adults.

RCTn = 39Physical Performance Physique

Double-blind RCT with 39 older adults comparing creatine supplementation before or after resistance training to placebo over 32 weeks. Creatine supplementation increased muscle strength and lean tissue mass more than placebo, with post-exercise creatine showing greater gains in lean tissue mass.

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2015·Journal of science and medicine in sport·Rodrigo Ramírez-Campillo, José Antonio González-Jurado, Cristian Martínez, et al

Effects of plyometric training and creatine supplementation on maximal-intensity exercise and endurance in female soccer players.

RCTn = 30Physical Performance

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of a six-week plyometric training and creatine supplementation on maximal-intensity and endurance performance in female soccer players. The creatine group showed greater improvements in jumps and repeated sprinting performance compared to the control and placebo groups.

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2015·The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience·Clare E Turner, Winston D Byblow, Nicholas Gant

Creatine supplementation enhances corticomotor excitability and cognitive performance during oxygen deprivation.

RCTn = 15Brain Health Mental Clarity

RCT investigating the effect of creatine supplementation on neurophysiological and neuropsychological function during acute oxygen deprivation in 15 healthy adults. Creatine supplementation increased brain creatine levels, enhanced corticomotor excitability, and restored cognitive performance, specifically attentional capacity, during hypoxia.

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