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Brand Names:

Generic Name: creatine (Pronunciation: KREE ah tin)

• What is creatine ()?
• What are the possible side effects of creatine ()?
• What is the most important information I should know about creatine ()?
• Who should not take creatine ()?
• How should I take creatine ()?
• What happens if I miss a dose ()?
• What happens if I overdose ()?
• What should I avoid while taking creatine ()?
• What other drugs will affect creatine ()?
• Where can I get more information?

What is creatine ()?

The use of creatine in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal/health supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.

Creatine is produced naturally in the kidney, liver, and pancreas of humans. Creatine is also supplied in meat and fish. Most creatine in the body is stored in the muscles, in the form of phosphocreatine. Creatine is a quickly available source of energy for muscle contraction. Creatine is also involved in muscle growth.

Creatine has been used to enhance athletic performance.

Creatine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of creatine may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Creatine may also have uses other than those listed in this product guide.

What are the possible side effects of creatine ()?

Although uncommon, serious side effects have been reported with the use of creatine. Stop taking creatine and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately if you experience:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
• symptoms of kidney problems such as decreased or little urine.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

Drink plenty of fluid while taking creatine. Although it has not been proven, dehydration, heat-related illnesses, muscle cramps, reduced blood volume, and electrolyte imbalances are expected to be more likely to occur while taking creatine.

Creatine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of creatine may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

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