Creatine doesn't commonly cause stomach cramps, so it is important that you talk with your doctor immediately if cramping develops. Talk with your doctor before you begin using creatine for any reason. Creatine is a supplement that is commonly used in bodybuilding and in older adults to maintain muscle mass. Creatine has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for effectiveness. Creatine may interact with certain drugs and is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. If you develop any other symptoms aside from just stomach cramps, call your doctor.
Creatine
Creatine is a chemical that is naturally made by the human body. It is primarily found in muscles, the liver and kidneys, and it helps to build muscle. Creatine is stored in muscles for energy that's needed when you make a sudden movement, according to MedlinePlus. Most creatine supplements are made from lean red meat and fish, which could trigger an allergic reaction if you are allergic to fish or certain meat proteins. The supplement is primarily used for exercise performance but is considered ineffective for people over the age of 60.
Dehydration
A common side effect and medical concern from using creatine is dehydration. Stomach pain can result from dehydration while taking creatine. Dehydration occurs when your body expels more water from your body than it retains. Creatine pulls water from your intestines during digestion, making it essential that you increase the amount of water you drink while taking this supplement. In extreme cases, dehydration may lead to death. Symptoms of dehydration, aside from stomach cramping, include dry skin, headache, constipation, light-headedness, thirst, lack of sweating, no urination and sunken eyes. If your doctor determines that you're dehydrated, you may need to be admitted to the emergency room to receive fluids intravenously.
Allergic Reaction
Drugs.com reports that creatine can cause an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction can cause stomach cramping within a few minutes of taking creatine because of inflammation in your digestive system. Allergic reactions are the result of an abnormal response of the immune system, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Your immune system mistakes the proteins in the supplement as dangerous and attacks them with antibodies and histamine. These chemicals cause swelling and inflammation in soft tissues, such as your intestines. The swelling in the digestive system leads to cramping, diarrhea, pain and nausea.
Warning
If you develop severe stomach cramps, facial swelling, vomiting, hives, light-headedness, a rapid heart rate and a drop in blood pressure, call 911. These are signs of a severe allergic reaction that could cause life-threatening symptoms.
