Your body produces phosphocreatine, or creatine phosphate, from the amino acid creatine. Your muscles store it as a source of energy. Creatine monophosphate is the dietary supplement version of phosphocreatine. Promoters market the product to athletes, claiming that it boosts their muscle energy during short-term strenuous physical activity. Talk to your doctor about the truthfulness of that promise and potential side effects from taking creatine monophosphate before using the supplement.
Creatine Monophosphate Description
Manufactured creatine monophosphate is similar to natural phosphocreatine, says R. Zein, a doctor of pharmacy, on the website DoctorsLounge. If so, the dietary supplement is a blend of creatine and phosphoric acid. The chemical compound powers your muscles, making it possible for them to contract. MedlinePlus, an information website of the National Institutes of Health, says that there is no firm scientific evidence that creatine supplements are beneficial. However, MedlinePlus says some studies suggest that supplementation is "possibly effective" in some situations.
Phosphocreatine for Athletes
Creatine monophosphate may enhance the performance of young and healthy athletes during short-duration events. The data available suggest that taking 20 g of creatine daily for five days is the most effective way of using the supplement for improved physical performance.
Phosphocreatine for Illnesses
During the early stages of Parkinson's disease, creatine monophosphate may delay the progression of symptoms, according to MedlinePlus. Creatine may have a similar effect if you have a visual loss known as gyrate atrophy. Several conditions characterized by weak muscles may also respond positively to phosphocreatine supplementation: Heart failure, muscular dystrophy and McArdle's disease, a problem that causes muscle pain, cramps and stiffness, may improve with creatine monophosphate.
Potential Problems
Despite helping the muscles, creatine monophosphate may cause muscle cramps, strains and pulls as a side effect. You may also gain weight and experience gastric discomfort as well as dizziness. In addition, more serious problems are possible, including hypertension, kidney failure and liver abnormalities. Creatine may also interact adversely with caffeine and diuretic drugs, causing dehydration. Your kidneys are at greater risk for damage when you combine creatine supplements with pain relievers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or with the gout medicine probenecid.
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