Creatine for BodyBuilding- Legal and Works Part 3

Availability

Creatine is sold under a number of names and formulae. It comes as a powder, pill and even a serum. The liquids containing creatine come in a variety of flavors and are easy to drink. The dose of creatine is 400 mg/kg or about 25 grams per day. All individuals who take creatine must hydrate them selves well.

To increase the work capacity, it has been recommended one take 5 grs four to five times a day. It takes about 6-8 weeks to build the lean protein mass and once the body has been built, one should take 2-3 pills a day. However, most athletes take anywhere from 25-75 g per day.

Besides the liquid and oral formulations, creatine also comes as an injectable. Both intramuscular and intravenous dosing is only limited for hospital use. For individuals less than 18 years of age, the dose should be limited to 5 g per day.

Safety

Generally creatine is very safe. It has been known to cause worsening of asthma in a few individuals. Individuals with a history of allergy, itching or dermatitis should be careful when using this supplement. Other side effects include nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps and loss of appetite.

Muscle cramping is the most common side effect noticed by athletes. It is not known if this is directly due to creatine or due to the intense training, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance or heat. In any case, one must drink ample water when taking creatine.

There are no long term studies to determine the safety of creatine. However, it is recommended that all individuals who take this supplement be regularly monitored by a health care physician.

Individuals who have liver or kidney problems should refrain from taking creatine. If they do, then the liver and kidney function must be monitored.

There are rare reports that creatine in large doses can cause compartment syndrome of the lower leg. This is a surgical emergency. Mild headaches, thirst, abnormal heart rhythms and seizures have also been reported.

Because athletes take so many pills, it is hard to know if these side effects are strictly related to creatine. Creatine is not recommended for use in pregnant or breast feeding females