Creatine

Medical: Historically used to lower cholesterol and treat rare conditions of heart failure due to creatine deficiencies; it has proposed benefits to decrease myalgias and myositis with statins.

Fitness: Increased usage of creatine over past decade to increase muscle mass and enhance physical performance. Initially used by professional athletes, it is now used as a nutritional supplement in almost all areas of exercise fitness (in both casual and competitive athletes).

Incidence: Unknown incidence in the population.

Unknown. Theoretical problems in pts with impaired renal function; potential for drug interactions, though no definitive studies

Hypovolemia and/or dehydration if nutrition inadequate.