Is taking creatine beneficial?

Creatine is a metabolite involved in the energy supply to muscles. The molecule is derived from various amino acids in the human body. Because of its central role in supplying energy to skeletal muscles, a hypothesis has emerged that high-dose creatine supplementation may help strengthen muscle groups and slow the progression of ALS.

For several years, taking high doses of creatine was a widespread form of self-medication for ALS. This practice was discontinued after the results of a negative clinical trial were published. In this study, there was no difference in symptoms or survival time between creatine therapy and placebo treatment. Overall, creatine therapy (and the associated expenses and costs) is not recommended, as the aforementioned clinical studies have not demonstrated the substance’s efficacy.