Creatine Supplement Shows Promise for Depression Treatment and Muscle Growth

A review by researchers at the University of Toronto and the University of Ottawa examined six earlier studies from five randomized clinical trials in countries including South Korea, the United States and Brazil. The analysis, published in *Brain Medicine*, found that creatine monohydrate may enhance the effectiveness of antidepressants or psychotherapy by improving the brain’s energy metabolism, but the current evidence is insufficient to issue general treatment recommendations.

A separate systematic review of creatine use alongside strength training reported that the supplement can increase lean body mass and improve performance in short, high‑intensity exercises. While initial weight gains are often due to water retention in muscle cells rather than new muscle tissue, longer‑term training combined with adequate nutrition can lead to measurable muscle hypertrophy.