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

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Synopsis

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

Creatine monohydrate has been investigated as a potential supportive therapy for certain types of muscular dystrophy, particularly Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD). The rationale for its use stems from creatine’s well-established role in energy metabolism within muscle cells. Muscular dystrophies are characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration, often due to defects in proteins necessary for muscle integrity. This muscle breakdown leads to impaired energy storage and utilization in affected tissues.

Several small clinical trials and pilot studies have evaluated creatine supplementation in children and adolescents with muscular dystrophy. A 2004 randomized controlled trial published in The Lancet found a modest increase in muscle strength and fat-free mass in boys with DMD who received creatine compared to placebo. Other studies have shown improvement in muscle function, handgrip strength, and daily living activities in some, but not all, subjects. However, the benefits appear to be mild and not universal. The safety profile of creatine in these studies has generally been good, with few adverse effects reported.

While these findings suggest creatine may offer some benefit, the overall quality and size of available studies are limited, and more robust, long-term trials are needed. Thus, the evidence supporting creatine monohydrate for muscular dystrophy is considered weak to moderate (rated 2/5), and its use is best considered as a supplementary, not primary, therapy under medical supervision.

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