Creatine: Teen Version

What is creatine used for?

Creatine monohydrate is a dietary supplement. It is used to increase muscle mass and improve performance in short-duration, high-intensity exercise. It is popular with athletes, weight lifters, and body builders.

Most athletes taking creatine will gain weight. Creatine makes athletes bigger and stronger but not more skillful or agile. Sometimes people who take creatine won't see any benefit.

How does it work?

Amino acids are your body’s building blocks for protein. You need protein to build up your muscles. Creatine is similar to an amino acid. Your liver makes creatine and it is stored in your muscles. As a supplement, it is usually sold in powder or tablet form. You need to drink lots of water if you take creatine to protect your kidneys.

Creatine helps the process that gives you energy for short bursts of exercise, such as sprinting. Creatine helps athletes to recover more quickly from exercise.

What else do I need to know about this supplement?

• Follow the directions that come with your supplement, including information about food or alcohol. Make sure you know how and when to take your supplement. Do not take more or less than you are supposed to take.
• Try to get all of your prescriptions filled at the same place. Your pharmacist can help make sure that all of your medicines and supplements are safe to take together.
• Keep a list of your medicines with you. List all of the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all of the products you are taking.
• Many medicines and supplements have side effects. A side effect is a symptom or problem that is caused by medicines or supplements. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist what side effects your medicines or supplements may cause and what you should do if you have side effects.

If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information. Be sure to keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.