Clinical applications

Abstract

Although creatine supplementation (CS) is typically considered in the context of sports supplementation, a continually expanding body of research literature is examining the potential clinical and therapeutic potential of CS. Aspects of clinical use seem obvious, to enhance muscle performance in conditions of sarcopenia, for muscular rehabilitation following injury, and for inborn errors of metabolism. In addition, the effects of CS have been examined in a variety of neurological and muscular disorders. Although most of the creatine (Cr) stored in the body is found in skeletal muscle, Cr is also found in tissues such as the brain, myocardial tissue, retina, and testes. Clinical application of CS targets these tissues as well as skeletal muscle. © 2008 Humana Press.