Creatine Monohydrate
N-(aminoiminomethyl)-N-methylglycine. Dietary Supplement, energy substrate / ergogenic aid.
This page describes what Creatine Monohydrate is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- Dietary Supplement
- Legal status
- Over-the-counter (unrestricted)
- Half-life
- N/A (accumulates in muscle tissue over 2-4 weeks to saturation)
- Liver strain
- None
- Kidney strain
- None in healthy individuals at recommended doses
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Muscle wasting/sarcopenia support
- Neuroprotective research (Parkinson's, TBI — investigational)
What it does in the body
Metabolic
- Increased phosphocreatine stores for ATP regeneration
- Increased strength and power output (well-documented, most researched sports supplement)
- Increased intracellular water/cell volumization
- Modest lean mass gain over time
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral (powder/capsule) | N/A (accumulates in muscle tissue over 2-4 weeks to saturation) | N/A (not a banned/tested substance) |
Side effects and health risks
Gastrointestinal
- Bloating (common, especially with loading doses)
- GI upset if not adequately hydrated
Musculoskeletal
- Water retention (subcutaneous and intracellular)
Kidneys
- None demonstrated in healthy individuals at standard doses; caution with pre-existing kidney disease
Related compounds
Questions
What is the half-life of Creatine Monohydrate?
About N/A (accumulates in muscle tissue over 2-4 weeks to saturation). Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is Creatine Monohydrate detectable?
Testing windows of N/A (not a banned/tested substance) are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is Creatine Monohydrate legal?
Over-the-counter (unrestricted). Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with Creatine Monohydrate?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of Creatine Monohydrate?
Gastrointestinal: bloating (common, especially with loading doses) and gi upset if not adequately hydrated. Musculoskeletal: water retention (subcutaneous and intracellular). Kidneys: none demonstrated in healthy individuals at standard doses; caution with pre-existing kidney disease.
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.