Review of 5 Trials Finds Mixed Creatine Effects on Depression
Updated
Updated · SciTechDaily · Jul 8
Review of 5 Trials Finds Mixed Creatine Effects on Depression
3 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · Jul 8
Summary
Five randomized controlled trials covering 238 participants found no clear consensus on creatine for depression, with researchers saying the evidence is too limited to support standard clinical use.
Two trials reported meaningful symptom reductions—one pairing 5 grams daily with escitalopram over 8 weeks, another combining creatine with cognitive behavioral therapy—but three others found no measurable benefit.
Two bipolar-disorder participants given creatine developed hypomania or mania, while other reported side effects were mostly mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Brain-energy and neurotransmitter theories give creatine a plausible rationale, but the review says small samples, mostly female participants and uneven study quality require larger, longer trials before any treatment recommendation.