Creatine for the treatment of depression

What the study found

This review examines the growing evidence that creatine, by supporting brain energy metabolism, may augment antidepressant treatment. Effects appear most promising in women and when added to standard therapy, though larger trials are still needed.

Key findings

• Brain energy deficits are implicated in depression; creatine targets that system.
• Adjunctive creatine sped and improved antidepressant response in some trials, especially in women.
• Evidence is promising but not yet definitive — more RCTs required.

The practical takeaway

Creatine is an intriguing, low-cost adjunct for mood research — but it's not a replacement for professional mental-health care.