Side Effects of Creatine

Creatine, either monohydrate or phosphorous is one of the most popular health supplements today, used very widely by weight lifters, as well as other athletes that are looking for increased strength, size and muscle development. Much of this popularity is due to the fact that creatine is a naturally occurring nutrient and so seen as being much safer than steroids and other drugs designed to assist in muscle growth and strength. Creatine looks so good from most angles that it begs the questions of what creatine side effects are there and what are the harmful side effects of creatine?

Currently there are fiercely divided opinions when it comes to creatine side effects, and whether creatine has adverse affects on humans. Because creatine is a naturally occurring substance in the human body the rules on federal regulations of the nutrient are not as straight forward as they are for more standard supplements and medications. These debates range from parties who believe it’s perfectly safe to take as much creatine as you like to others that argue that the short term side effect of creatine mono hydrate is minor, but that long term side effects of creatine use need to be further studied before the drug is deemed safe. Here we will look at several categories of side effects and classify creatine’s place in each.

General Side Effects

It is known that creatine has never been shown to be harmfully toxic, but the draw of water from the rest of the body to the muscles can lead to mild dehydration connected with createin side effect symptoms. These include: dry mouth, gas, weight gain, nausea, dizziness, upset stomach, bloating, diarrhea and weakness. Most of these symptoms occur only with a daily creatine dosage over 5 grams and subside with proper hydration, or slightly decreased dosage. Persons with kidney disease should not take creatine monohydrate as there may be unknown effects of creatine monohydrate connected with this disease.

Muscle Cramping or pulls

There is a concern that other negative side effects of creatine monohydrate could be increased cramping or muscle pulls. A number of studies have been done to address this concern and these occurrences have been most closely linked to a tendency for creatine users to overwork or over train their muscles before the structure of tendons and ligaments has strengthened to account for increased muscle mass.

Sexual Side Effects

There is no known short term or long term side effects of creatine monohydrate that are linked with change in genital size, sexual performance or libido. It has not been found to change sperm counts or motility, though the boost in size is often related to increased confidence that may increase sexual drive and performance. No conclusive studies have been done on the side effects of creatine monohydrate on pregnant or lactating women, though it is generally accepted creatine should not be taken during these times.

Creatine Withdrawal

Creatine has not been shown to cause any classic signs of withdrawal. There are no associated cravings, headache, shakes or such. Generally muscle growth will begin to recede until muscle mass is no longer hyper hydrated. This does not mean that muscle gains while on the creatine will not be maintained, but additional mass from the nutrient will fade. Going back on creatine restores mass fairly quickly, but dosage should still be monitored for the best effects without overdose.

When you are deciding whether or not to add creatine monohydrate to your work out regime seek out the guidance of your personal physician first. Follow the instructions for dosage and stick with a healthy program of exercise and proper nutrition, including adequate hydration. If you encounter any side effects stop taking the creatine and seek medical advice.