Creatine is a building block of protein that plays a role in healthy muscle function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Both professional and amateur athletes commonly use it to boost performance by increasing muscle mass. It's also used to treat Parkinson's disease, high cholesterol, arthritis and other conditions. Creatine is not a proven treatment and can cause side effects. Consult a doctor before taking creatine supplements.
Typical Side Effects
At recommended doses, creatine is usually safe, according to MedlinePlus. Normal side effects include stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea and cramps. Creatine causes muscles to soak up water from the rest of the body. This can cause weight gain without the increase in muscle mass that many creatine users want. It can also cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water while taking creatine to prevent dehydration and do not exercise in the heat. Additional symptoms include thirst, headache, fever, seizures, swollen limbs, dizziness or fainting. Creatine may also cause muscle breakdown, which may increase the risk of muscle tears or sprains.
Psychological Side Effects
There have been reports of creatine supplements causing anxiety and depression, according to MayoClinic.com. Creatine may also cause nervousness, irritability, aggression and sleepiness.
Allergic Reaction
Some people are allergic to creatine and should not take the supplements, according to MayoClinic.com. An allergic reaction can cause a rash, itching and breathing problems like shortness of breath or asthma symptoms.
Potential Side Effects
Taken in high doses, creatine may cause high blood pressure, kidney, liver and heart problems, though evidence about these risks is unclear, according to MedlinePlus. There have been a few reports of creatine causing kidney and liver damage. Do not take creatine if you have liver or kidney problems or diabetes unless you consult your doctor first. Creatine may also interfere with diabetes medications. There is also concern that creatine could cause an irregular heartbeat in some people or a skin condition known as pigmented purpuric dermatosis. However, there is not enough evidence to be sure that creatine can cause these two diseases.
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