Evidence supporting the use of: Creatine Malate
For the health condition: Muscular Dystrophy

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Creatine supplementation, including forms like creatine malate, has been investigated as a supportive treatment for muscular dystrophy, primarily Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The rationale is based on creatine’s role in cellular energy metabolism; muscles affected by dystrophy have impaired energy production, and creatine can help replenish ATP, the primary energy molecule in muscle cells.

Several clinical studies have assessed the effects of creatine monohydrate (the most researched form) in children and young adults with DMD and other muscular dystrophies. A 2004 randomized controlled trial published in The Lancet (Gordon et al.) found that creatine supplementation improved muscle strength and fat-free mass in boys with DMD. Additional meta-analyses and systematic reviews (e.g., Kley et al., 2013, Neurology) indicate modest improvements in muscle strength and daily living activities, with a generally favorable safety profile. However, most studies have focused on creatine monohydrate; direct evidence for creatine malate is limited, though it is presumed to have similar effects due to its comparable bioavailability.

Despite some positive findings, the evidence is not robust (hence a score of 2/5). The studies are often small, short-term, and not all demonstrate clinically meaningful benefits. There is currently no evidence creatine (any form) alters disease progression. Nonetheless, creatine supplementation is sometimes recommended as an adjunct therapy for muscular dystrophy based on this limited but positive scientific evidence, not tradition.

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