A supplement long used by athletes to build muscle may have a role in treating depression, according to early research. A large systematic review found that creatine monohydrate supplementation shows promise for improving symptoms of major depressive disorder, though the evidence is mixed and researchers say more large-scale studies are needed. The findings were published in Brain Medicine on June 30, as reported by Healthline.
Researchers from the University of Ottawa and the University of Toronto analyzed randomized controlled trials conducted worldwide. The review included five trials with a total of 238 participants: 126 received creatine supplementation and 112 received a placebo. The average age of participants was 36 years, and the majority were female. Two of the five trials enrolled only women.
Depression affects around 332 million people worldwide. Many people experience only partial or no response to existing depression medications, which is one reason researchers have been exploring additional treatment options.
The review authors say creatine may help by providing an energy buffer for brain cells. Impaired energy metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction have both been linked to depression, and creatine is known for its role in cellular energy metabolism. That biological connection is what drew researchers to investigate it as a potential mental health treatment.
Supplementation doses in the included studies ranged from two grams to ten grams per day, with treatment durations typically lasting four to eight weeks. Some trials investigated creatine as an add-on to antidepressant medications, while others combined it with cognitive behavioral therapy. Researchers assessed depressive symptoms using standard clinical scales including the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire.
Because the studies varied in dosage, treatment duration, and participant characteristics, the research team summarized the findings in narrative form rather than performing a statistical meta-analysis. They also noted that some clinical trial data were unavailable, which limited their overall assessment.
Experts note that creatine supplements have an established safety profile when taken as directed. Those with depression who are interested in trying creatine are advised to continue existing treatments and use it only as an add-on. Lifestyle factors including sleep, exercise, nutrition, and stress management are also noted to support brain health. Researchers say further large-scale studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
