Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine
Research snapshot:
2011 systematic review finds creatine monohydrate is the safest and most effective form of creatine.
2011 |
Systematic review |
Creatine |
Ergogenic effects |
Overview.
The study evaluates the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of various forms of creatine, concluding that creatine monohydrate is the most well-studied and safe form, while other forms lack sufficient evidence and regulatory approval.
Background.
A team of researchers associated with Increnovo LLC, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, Healthy Navi Co., Ltd., and Texas A&M University published this study in the journal Amino Acids.
Objectives.
The study aimed to assess the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of different forms of creatine, comparing them to creatine monohydrate. It also sought to evaluate the claims made by manufacturers about the benefits of newer forms of creatine and to examine the regulatory frameworks governing these supplements in various countries.
Study design.
The study was a systematic review of literature on various forms of creatine available in the global marketplace. It involved searches of the Medline database and patent research from several intellectual property offices. The authors analyzed and interpreted the results of relevant studies and reviewed the regulatory status of creatine forms in key markets.
Results.
The study found that creatine monohydrate significantly increases muscle phosphagen levels, enhances anaerobic exercise capacity, and promotes greater training adaptations without significant side effects. Newer forms of creatine, such as creatine ethyl ester and creatine salts, were found to be less stable and less effective than creatine monohydrate. The regulatory status of these newer forms is unclear in many countries, with only creatine monohydrate being officially approved in major markets like the USA, EU, Canada, and Japan.
Conclusions.
The researchers concluded that creatine monohydrate is the most effective, safe, and well-studied form of creatine, while other forms lack adequate safety data and regulatory approval. The study highlights the need for careful monitoring of the public health implications of using unapproved forms of creatine.
Original paper.
Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369–1383. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-011-0874-6
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