Tag: Creatine monohydrate

While often mistakenly referred to as a drug, creatine is a non-prescription dietary supplement with a wide body of research confirming its effectiveness and safety, particularly for performance enhancement. Understanding what is the drug creatine used for means recognizing its primary role in increasing muscle energy stores, a benefit that extends beyond athletics to support brain health and age-related wellness.

A 2021 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that creatine supplementation could be effective in reducing indices of muscle damage and improving muscle function following intense exercise. This helps explain the complex relationship and evidence surrounding the question: **Does creatine help with soreness**?

According to a 2025 review of clinical trials, creatine supplementation is considered safe and offers wider health benefits beyond just athletic performance. This has led to the question: **Can I take creatine without a workout**? For many, the answer is a surprising 'yes,' as consistent daily use can offer cognitive and anti-aging advantages by supporting the body's fundamental cellular energy systems.

Surveys show creatine is one of the most popular supplements among NCAA male athletes, with usage rates as high as 29.4% in sports like ice hockey. But a common question is, **do I have to take creatine forever if I take it?** The short answer is no.

Over 80% of NCAA male athletes in sports like hockey, football, and wrestling have reported using creatine, highlighting its widespread appeal among those seeking a performance edge. So, with such popular use, **is creatine really worth it?** For many, the answer is a resounding yes, driven by decades of research backing its efficacy and safety.

Surveys show that creatine is one of the most widely used dietary supplements, with up to 28% of collegiate athletes reporting its use [1.3.3]. A common concern is whether this popular supplement answers the question: **Does creatine make you puffy?**