Popular Gym Supplement Could Help With Depression
Summary
Creatine, a popular supplement used to build muscle, is being studied to see if it can help with depression. Early research shows mixed results, so experts say it is too soon to use creatine as a treatment for depression.Key Facts
- Depression affects over 18% of U.S. adults, about 47.8 million people.
- Researchers reviewed five clinical trials testing creatine for depression.
- Two studies showed creatine helped women with major depressive disorder when combined with the antidepressant escitalopram.
- Three trials found no benefit, including among people with treatment-resistant depression, teenagers, and those with bipolar disorder.
- Some participants with bipolar disorder experienced hypomania or mania after taking creatine.
- Creatine helps the body and brain produce energy, which might affect mood.
- The link between creatine and brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin is possible but not fully understood.
- Experts say current evidence is not strong enough to recommend creatine to treat depression.
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