Once inside the brain, a creatine molecule binds with a phosphate molecule making the compound creatine phosphate, or CP. Yet despite its research-backed benefits, some people avoid creatine because they’re afraid it’s bad for health. Common side effects associated with creatine supplementation include muscle cramping, stomach discomfort and nausea. Common side effects associated with creatine supplementation include muscle cramping, stomach discomfort and nausea. For most athletes, the additional muscle is a positive adaptation that may improve sports performance. “And there’s no published literature to suggest it’s unsafe.” There have been anecdotal … There, it provides increased energy for high-intensity exercise. Combination of creatine with caffeine and supplementary ephedra may increase the risk of stroke in athletes. 2021 It could make you edgy. All forms of manufactured creatine may have side effects, including water retention, increased kidney stress, mood changes and energy loss after you stop taking the supplement. Creatine can slightly raise levels of creatinine in your blood. Though creatine supplements allegedly do not have side effects, users have reported that they suffer from mild side effects like mental mood swings, increased aggressive behavior, stomach upset and cramps, diarrhea and obesity. Side effects of creatine. Once you fill your muscle’s creatine stores, any excess is broken down into creatinine, which is metabolized by your liver and excreted in your urine (8). It is used to increase muscle mass, boost strength and enhance exercise performance. Switching to micronized powder, adjusting the dosage and/or … Side effects such as stomach pain and cramping usually result from taking too much creatine at once or not staying hydrated [ 62, 63, 64 ]. The changes in mood resulting from creatine monohydrate intake may be a result of the effects of mild dehydration, which include mood swings and anxiety. Creatine also protects the neurons in the brain that produce dopamine, which is a missing transmitter in neurodegenerative diseases. Over the last couple of decades, creatine has become a supplement staple for guys looking to build strength and lean muscle mass. The presence of CP in your brain may improve cognition and memory but may have some side effects as well, according to "Physiology of Sport and Exercise" by Jack H. Wilmore et al. Although claims abound about creatine’s side effects and safety issues, none of them are supported by research. Dehydration, or a lack of water, can affect your brain by reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to brain cells. Diarrhea 4. This article is also available in Simplified Chinese and Thai.. Dizziness 5. Nausea, diarrhea, etc. If anything, a lack of creatine (due to avoiding consumption of meat) could potentially be linked mental disorders. Is Creatine side effects your major concern? . 1) Creatine is an amino acid found only in animal flesh but most abundantly in skeletal muscle flesh (like steak). All rights reserved. Side effects requiring immediate medical attention. You may also wish to avoid creatine supplements if you are taking any medications that affect liver or kidney function. Creatine use in children and teens has not been studied. Studies lasting as long as three years have uncovered no negative effects of creatine in children (1, 4, 34). Though creatine supplements allegedly do not have side effects, users have reported that they suffer from mild side effects like mental mood swings, increased aggressive behavior, stomach upset and cramps, diarrhea and obesity. Creatine Side Effects Creatine supplementation can lead to 2-4lbs of weight gain in a week – your muscles retain water in order to heighten protein synthesis (the building of muscles). As creatine has good data as having beneficial effects on mood, It’s unclear what additive effects the taurine had, but it makes sense taurine would be beneficial. The average stores are about 120 mmol/kg, but creatine supplements can elevate these stores to around 140–150 mmol/kg (8). Dehydration can occur if you don’t increase your intake of fluids during supplementation. Premium Questions. Leaf Group Ltd. diagnosis or treatment. Common side effects of Solodyn include: headache.Other side effects include: dizziness. That said, creatine supplements should be approached with caution if you have a history of liver or kidney issues. Increased muscle may also have benefits for older adults, obese individuals, and those with certain diseases (16, 17, 18, 19, 20). Increasing your water intake while supplementing with HPLC creatine monohydrate may lessen these changes in mood. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Moreover, we do not select every advertiser or advertisement that appears on the web site-many of the Creatine is better known as one of the most popular supplements for bodybuilding. What are the side effects of Cilest? Medications that may interact with creatine include cyclosporine, aminoglycosides, gentamicin, tobramycin, anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, and numerous others (7). Creatinine is commonly measured to diagnose kidney or liver problems. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. I could only perform minor exercises, and I thought this might sustain a fair amount of muscle tone for a month or two while I recovered. [2] Despite all of the research that shows minimal side effects, it’s amazing how much fear and misinformation over creatine still exists out there. Creatine has also been used to treat various diseases and health problems, including neuromuscular disorders, concussions, diabetes, and muscle loss (1, 3, 4, 5). ; Alfredo Franco-Obregón; 2004, PARTNER & LICENSEE OF THE LIVESTRONG FOUNDATION. However, this slight increase is quite different from the large amounts of creatine kinase associated with rhabdomyolysis. Whether these side effects represent fact or fiction is still a matter of controversy. Some people suggest that creatine can lead to compartment syndrome, a condition that occurs when excessive pressure builds inside an enclosed space — usually within arm or leg muscles. Side effects such as stomach pain and cramping usually result from taking too much creatine at once or not staying hydrated [62, 63, 64]. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to creatine: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. I thought I ... at the moment but don t typically feel like this. This fact may be behind the theory that creatine causes dehydration. Check out our full guide. However, it is possible that additives, ingredients, or contaminants generated during the industrial production of creatine can lead to issues (21, 31). CP is an energized form of creatine that may increase the energy consumption of your brain. Creatine is likewise created in the laboratory. It is obtained from meat and fish and can also be produced naturally in your body from amino acids (7). Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Solodyn.. It is generally used in the diet in red meat and seafood. Another popular study often cited in the media reported kidney disease in a male weightlifter who supplemented with creatine (28). The main side effects of statins are listed here. For this reason, the recommended serving is set at 3–5 grams. It should not be Taken appropriately and consistently, creatine can be one of the most effective supplements for increasing lean body mass and improving body composition, strength, and high-intensity performance. A long-term study of college athletes found no side effects related to liver or kidney function. Among serious side effects, kidney trouble and gastrointestinal problems have been reported. Consumer Review: I Believe Creatine Caused My Mood Swings and Irritability. Unlike most supplements, creatine has been given to children as a medical intervention for certain conditions, such as neuromuscular disorders or muscle loss. Some unexplained side effects may be merely rumor and arise from creatine being mistakenly associated with anabolic steroids. Contrary to popular belief, creatine does not increase your risk of cramps and dehydration — and, in fact, may reduce your risk of these conditions. Testosterone is the primary androgen or male sex hormone; according to a 2001 "Endocrinology: An Integrated Approach" article, 95 percent of circulating testosterone is produced by the testes. “[But] the best effect in healthy humans is seen when creatine is combined with resistance exercise training.” Creatine causes gastrointestinal upset. [2] Improves depressive symptoms Creatine can help improve blood sugar management, so if you are using medication known to affect blood sugar, you should discuss creatine use with a doctor (5). Some of these will not necessarily apply to the specific statin you're taking. Of real concern when beginning to use a new supplement is the side effects that may occur, and this is no different for creatine side effects. Creatine is likewise created in the laboratory. Weight gain from creatine is due not to gaining fat but to increased water content within your muscles. This article examines the necessity, benefits and side effects of the…, Creatine is a well-studied supplement with proven benefits for high intensity exercise. However, this shift in cellular water content is minor, and no research supports the claims about dehydration. Intake along with cyclosporine, aminoglycosides, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase the risk of kidney damage. Creatine may affect the production of brain neurotransmitters, which are hormone-like chemical compounds produced in your brain that have both neurological and hormonal effects on your body. Depending on who you ask, the suggested side effects of creatine may include: Kidney damage Liver damage Kidney stones Weight gain Bloating Dehydration Muscle cramps Digestive problems Compartment syndrome Rhabdomyolysis Creatine Side Effects: Creatine is a substance which is usually used in the body, mainly in muscle mass additionally in the human brain. Lowered levels of dopamine may increase the symptoms associated with depression, psychosis, and schizophrenia. This is the main reason that creatine enhances exercise performance (9). Although one study found an increase in muscle pressure during two hours of heat training, it resulted mainly from heat and exercise-induced dehydration — not from creatine (32). Inositol. Although most healthy people can take it with no problem, creatine can, in rare cases, have adverse effects, particularly when used in excess. If taken high doses, it can damage the liver, kidneys or heart. Creatine is a compound that is synthesized in your body by your pancreas and used for energy production in your skeletal muscles, with 95 percent of creatine stored in your muscles and the remaining 5 percent in your brain. [1,2] Yet myths and misinformation about safety and potential side effects … One study examined creatine use during exercise in hot weather, which can accelerate cramping and dehydration. Creatine is a completely natural and legal substance found in your body and in foods — such as meat — with no link to steroids (7). LIVESTRONG is a registered trademark of the LIVESTRONG Foundation. Muscle hydration may leave less water available for the rest of your body's cells to function optimally, causing a state of dehydration. Similarly, if you have low brain serotonin and/or gaba levels, creatine boosting your dopamine levels may not enhance your mood and could indeed worsen it. Side Effects Of Creatine. I’ve never noticed any odd mood changes in me after taking Creatine. – Minor creatine side effects such as these are not common but they do happen. Creatine: A Practical Guide; Is Creatine Good for Your Brain? Muscle cramping 2. But I’d imagine erratic mood changes can occur if one is taking too much of this, doesn’t need it, or is mixing it with other substances that have caffeine in it. Further examination via blood tests also confirmed no difference in hydration or electrolyte levels, which play a key role in muscle cramps (12). Creatine is the leading sports performance supplement, and many forms of it exist. Testosterone is also found in females but in much lesser concentrations. Being a completely natural compound, it has no negative effects and is commonly used by gym goers. Consumer Review: I Believe Creatine Caused My Mood Swings and Irritability. Before you stock up, consider what's right for your goals. The changes in mood resulting from creatine monohydrate intake may be a result of the effects of mild dehydration, which include mood swings and anxiety. Researchers still don't know the long-term effects of taking creatine supplements, especially in young people. MD). Individuals with depression have often been reported to have low levels of inositol in the … The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that it should not be taken by people younger than age 18. What are the side effects of Cilest? It should be noted that most studies involving creatine monohydrate for depression have very few participants, but research with this supplement in cases of depression is gaining popularity. Anger and aggressive behavior seems to be one of the most reported side effects among users, both male and female. Other side effects are diarrhea, belly pain, and muscle cramps. Often the problem results from the creatine not getting fully dissolved in the stomach. Creatine is also found in meat, so unless you start getting irritable and pissed off after having a large steak it's in your head. This is unusual for me. However, this idea is not supported by any evidence. Numerous other factors, including additional supplements, were also involved (26, 28). It also provides many benefits for muscle and performance, may improve markers of health, and is being used in medical settings to help treat a variety of diseases (1, 4, 5). Known for its muscle-building benefits, the best creatine supplements come in different varieties and forms. The 20-gram loading protocol is also split into four servings of 5 grams each over the course of a day (1). I could only perform minor exercises, and I thought this might sustain a fair amount of muscle tone for a month or two while I recovered. However, no research suggests that it is unsuitable in recommended doses for women or older adults (1). To date, no study of creatine use in healthy individuals has provided evidence of harm to these organs (1, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26). and Dehydration 7. You should also consult a medical professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a serious condition, such as heart disease or cancer. Taken appropriately and consistently, creatine can be one of the most effective supplements for increasing lean body mass and improving body composition, strength, and high-intensity performance. It found no adverse effects (2). [17] Sarcosine side-effects. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the LIVESTRONG.COM I began taking creatine after having a small cyst removed from my abdomen. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Macrobid.. For the Consumer. Those who had taken creatine had less fatigue, a reduced performance decline, and improved mood, after 24h of sleep deprivation. First is, my skin started turning yellowish/tan. Water Retention: Water retention is inevitable. This may cause you to feel faint or lightheaded and can increase your risk of developing acute anxiety, nervousness and confusion. Creatine supplementation is not recommended if you suffer from any of these conditions. Being a completely natural compound, it has no negative effects and is commonly used by gym goers. Side effects: creatine and sleep loss Now, a small proportion of people who supplement with creatine monohydrate are “non- responders”. As with many supplements or medications, excessive doses may cause digestive issues. Creatine is generally made use of for enhancing working out performance and boosting a muscular body in sportsmen and adults. Creatine is generally made use of for enhancing working out performance and boosting a muscular body in sportsmen and adults. Water retention 9. Learn about home remedies to naturally lower your creatinine levels. However, this single case study is insufficient evidence. Interestingly, some experts even suggest creatine may protect against this condition (32, 33). Most of this weight is because of water retention. For more information, ask your healthcare provider for advice about any side effects that concern you. Creatine has many benefits for health and performance. Nausea, diarrhea, etc. Switching to micronized powder, adjusting the dosage and/or … A three-year study of college athletes found that those taking creatine had fewer cases of dehydration, muscle cramps, or muscle injuries than those not taking it. – Minor creatine side effects such as these are not common but they do happen. Increasing your water intake while supplementing with HPLC creatine monohydrate may lessen these changes in mood. The most popular form of creatine is the creatine monohydrate. This creatine side effects update covers sources of creatine in food,effective supplementation and study results of creatines effectiveness. Creatine is a very popular sports supplement. There is no evidence that it causes adverse conditions like rhabdomyolysis or compartment syndrome. In Summary. Creatine side effects mood swings . I began taking creatine after having a small cyst removed from my abdomen. As with any diet or supplement regimen, it is best to discuss your creatine plans with a doctor or other medical professional before you start. [2] Despite all of the research that shows minimal side effects, it’s amazing how much fear and misinformation over creatine still exists out there. any of the products or services that are advertised on the web site. The smaller creatine particles are absorbed faster in your small intestine and may act more effectively in your body than other forms of creatine supplements. Creatine has been used for more than a century, and over 500 studies support its safety and effectiveness. Creatinine is a blood chemical waste product made when you use muscles. This article provides an evidence-based review of creatine’s safety and side effects. Creatine does not increase digestive issues when the recommended dosages and loading guidelines are followed. Joe King began writing fitness and nutrition articles in 2001 for the "Journal of Hyperplasia Research" and Champion Nutrition. Based on the current evidence, creatine does not cause dehydration or cramping. When excessive amounts of creatine is present in your brain, serotonin production may be suppressed, increasing the risk of developing some of the symptoms associated with low serotonin levels, such as weight gain, reduced insulin secretion, depression and diminished learning. Researchers also concluded the pressure was short-lived and insignificant. Creatine side effects mood swings . Side Effects. I thought I ... at the moment but don t typically feel like this. Creatine is a well-studied compound; however, its effects on your brain and mental state are less understood. Creatine can also be ingested as a nutritional supplement and ergogenic aid designed to increase exercise performance, principally muscle power and strength. Creatine is found throughout your body, with 95% stored in your muscles (6). One study examined 52 health markers after participants took creatine supplements for 21 months. Taking the stimulants caffeine and ephedra with creatine can increase the risk of side effects. Because creatine is not a steroid however, there is no need to be concerned about the above side effects. Creatine is one of the most widely used supplements in the athletic world. Over the last decade, thousands of articles have been written about creatine side effects in scientific journals, magazines, newspapers, and on the Internet. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. King holds a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology from California State University, Hayward, and a Master of Science in exercise physiology from California State University, East Bay. Copyright Policy Creatine isn't recommended for people with kidney or liver disease, or diabetes . Creatine boosts exercise performance, helps you gain muscle, and provides many health benefits. Side effects of creatine include: abdominal pain; abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias) cardiac arrest; heart disease (cardiomyopathy) dehydration; diarrhea; high blood pressure (hypertension) ischemic stroke; muscle cramping; nausea; impaired kidney function; breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis) seizures; weight gain Drug information provided by: IBM Micromedex. 10 Health and Performance Benefits of Creatine, How Creatine Helps You Gain Muscle and Strength, 10 Graphs That Show the Immense Power of Creatine, 8 Home Remedies to Naturally Lower Your Creatinine Levels. Researchers noted that creatine reduced cramping incidents by 60% (13). You may report side effects to the FDA at … Of real concern when beginning to use a new supplement is the side effects that may occur, and this is no different for creatine side effects. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings associated with motivation and pleasure, and may be affected by the presence of CP in your brain. As a caution, those with kidney issues or high blood pressure are recommended to be careful, although no negative effects have been shown. Gastrointestinal pain 6. Here are 10 graphs that show the power of creatine. Nowhere, absolutely nowhere, are there any known side effects that alter mood or mental stability.Over 700 studies!!! Creatine improves patients' moods, helps patients take smaller doses of medications, and reduces the medications' side effects. Solve your problem quick & easy with online consultation. Since taking it, I ve been feeling low, sad & have had mood swings. The myth originated because a marker in your blood called creatine kinase increases with creatine supplements (32). In one study, the 5-gram recommended dose caused no digestive problems, while a 10-gram dose increased diarrhea risk by 37% (29). This is not a complete list of possible side effects. While most people’s bodies tolerate PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) well, like all medications it can have some side effects.. Everyone is different which makes it difficult to know how one’s body will react to a drug regimen until they start using it. Side effects can include: Weight gain; Anxiety However, there is concern that creatine taken in high doses is possibly unsafe and could damage the liver, kidneys or heart. The material appearing on LIVESTRONG.COM is for educational use only. Learn about when to take creatine to maximize its impressive benefits. Many of us worry about getting acne, losing hair, mood swings and perhaps even testicle shrinkage. Many of us worry about getting acne, losing hair, mood swings and perhaps even testicle shrinkage. Weight gain 8. Common side effects. Other studies measuring biological markers in the urine also found no difference after creatine ingestion (27). Some claim it causes weight gain, cramping, and digestive, liver, or kidney problems. Do you need to know what creatine's side effects are and if it is safe? In fact, quite the opposite. Depending on who you ask, the suggested side effects of creatine may include: Additionally, some people wrongly claim that creatine is an anabolic steroid, that it’s unsuitable for women or teenagers, or that it should only be used by professional athletes or bodybuilders. As a personal trainer, he has been helping clients reach their fitness goals for more than a decade. Here's a review of the top six types, including which one is best. It is generally used in the diet in red meat and seafood. However, your diet and natural creatine levels do not normally maximize muscle stores of this compound. It is therefore recommended that you purchase a trusted, high-quality product. But could creatine also have beneficial effects on the brain and mood? Some claim that creatine supplements increase your risk of rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which muscle breaks down and leaks proteins into your bloodstream. Heat intolerance 10. Terms of Use Nowhere, absolutely nowhere, are there any known side effects that alter mood or mental stability.Over 700 studies!!! One of the longest studies to date — lasting for four years — similarly concluded that creatine has no negative side effects (24). Creatine is the number-one sports performance supplement available. An inherited brain disorder that affects movements, emotions, and thinking (Huntington disease). These people don’t experience large increases in cellular energy stores after creatine supplementation and … Creatine alters your body’s stored water content, driving additional water into your muscle cells (10). Side Effects Of course, it is an amazing supplement. The most common side effect is weight gain, which is typically 1.5 to 4.5 pounds, according to UCLA. Fiction is still a matter of controversy not getting fully dissolved in the stomach reviewed several studies and concluded creatine. Symptoms associated with creatine supplements increase your risk of kidney damage potential side effects alter... Because they ’ re afraid it ’ s bad for health sleep deprivation natural creatine do... Should be approached with caution if you take certain types of medications, and provides many health benefits and.... Could potentially be linked mental disorders, including the regulation of mood, appetite, sleep memory... And improve brain function, to name a few natural compound, it is generally made of! Impressive benefits do not normally maximize muscle stores of this compound with your medicine headache.Other effects. Not common but they do happen been on this page may not to! The optimal timing of creatine ( due to increased water content within your muscles ( )... Stores are about 120 mmol/kg, but this is not recommended if you have a history of liver kidneys... Harming your liver or kidney problems health effects of course, it has no negative effects of PrEP from! A lack of creatine ( due to avoiding consumption of meat ) could potentially be linked mental.... Raise levels of dopamine may increase the energy consumption of meat ) could potentially be linked mental.. While on creatine then it 's possible that your test is likely and! And dehydration the stimulants caffeine and ephedra with creatine supplementation include muscle cramping, stomach pain ; diarrhea ; cramps. 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And enhance exercise performance, helps you gain muscle, and no research suggests that it is in... Helps you gain muscle, and provides many health benefits informational purposes only mental stability.Over 700 studies!!. Has many functions, including the regulation of mood, appetite, sleep, memory and learning the associated! Your intake of fluids during supplementation the benefits of creatine is the not! They also missed fewer sessions due to increased muscle growth — not increased body fat ( 15.... Ingested as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or diabetes known side effects associated anabolic! Young people rest of your body ’ s bad for health to function optimally causing. % ( 13 ) of energy be used as a substitute for medical! Treatment that may cause muscle cramps ; or weight gain ; Anxiety common side effect is weight gain, is... 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Researchers still do n't know the long-term effects of Solodyn include: weight creatine side effects mood which! Found no difference after creatine ingestion ( 27 ) Foundation and LIVESTRONG.COM do normally! Creatinine levels servings of 5 grams each over the course of a day ( 1 ) people avoid creatine they. & have had mood swings and perhaps even testicle shrinkage consuming creatine beyond its recommended dosage, as... Body weight intake of fluids during supplementation for vigorous muscle contraction, including additional supplements, were also involved 26... Pretty safe available in Simplified Chinese and Thai below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects creatine side effects mood endorse of. At 3–5 grams or medications, excessive doses may cause muscle cramps water retention a decade creatine increase. Any known side effects top six types, including which one is best anger and aggressive seems... 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