Creatine adverse reactions and interactions:
Creatine adverse reactions: Most research on use of creatine documented that this supplement is safe, and tolerated well with minimal side effects. Creatine should only be considered under a physician’s direction if kidney function will be evaluated prior to taking creatine and patients should be advised to report major reactions during use. Reports have linked creatine to weight gain, cramping, dehydration, diarrhea, dizziness, and may decrease renal function (4).
Long term use of creatine:
Concerns exist regarding the long term risks of the use of creatine supplements since few studies have been conducted long enough in order to evaluate this. Creatine at a dose of 4 grams per day was determined safe in elderly Parkinson’s disease patients with only gastrointestinal complaints, an expected rise in creatinine with breakdown of creatine, normal renal tubular function, and normal glomerular kidney function with monitoring over the duration of 2 years (17).