Trac Creatine is a creatine dietary supplement that is made by Maximum Human Performance, or MHP. The product claims to have a timed-release delivery system that helps your muscles absorb optimal amounts of creatine at the correct times. The formula contains creatine monohydrate and the amino acids l-arginine, l-lysine and l-phenylalanine. Trac Creatine does not contain any sugar. Although the American Council on Exercise considers creatine safer than most performance-enhancing alternatives, side effects are possible.
Drug Interactions
Trac Creatine could potentially interact with other medications or dietary supplements and produce harmful, unwanted side effects. Even though creatine monohydrate has been a popular sports supplement, it is still uncertain how it will react with other prescription or non-prescription medications and other sports supplements. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends avoiding diuretics completely and not using high doses of caffeine with your creatine product. You also should not take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs -- such as Tylenol or Advil -- with creatine. When using Trac Creatine, cimetidine and probenecid should be avoided because of a potential risk of kidney damage.
Dehydration
Dehydration may be the most common and most probable side effect of using Trac Creatine or any creatine product. According to MedlinePlus, creatine prompts your muscles to draw in and retain water from the rest of your body. To remain properly hydrated, increase your water intake. Dehydration can be particularly common for athletes who practice or compete in hot weather. According to Vanderbilt University, wrestlers who must lose weight because they are required to compete at a certain body weight are even more prone to dehydration. Dehydration can produce muscle cramping, physical fatigue and even heat stroke, which can be extremely serious.
Kidney Problems
Trac Creatine may cause acute kidney failure if you have a history of kidney problems, and especially if you use the creatine incorrectly. High doses of creatine over extended time periods may lead to kidney problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You should avoid creatine formulas such as Trac Creatine if you have had kidney problems, liver problems or high blood pressure. Even if you have not, you should consult with your doctor before using Trac Creatine or any dietary supplement.
References
- MedlinePlus: Creatine
- MayoClinic.com: Creatine: Safety
- Vanderbilt University: Wrestling Practices and Creatine Monohydrate: A Deadly Combination?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Creatine
- Rice University: Creatine Supplementation in Athletes: Review
- American Council on Exercise: Creatine Creates a Sensation
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