There are numerous reports of cramps, nausea, dehydration and delayed healing following muscle strains. The deaths of three collegiate wrestlers evoked deep concern about the use of creatine. The body manufactures 1-3 grams a day of creatine in the liver and kidneys. It seems senseless to take more than that amount on a daily basis. Manufacturers recommend taking 20 grams a day for a week or two to saturate your muscles and follow with a maintenance dose of 5 grams a day.
Creatine is known to cause increased muscle mass and weight gain.
It does have medical benefits in the treatment to muscle-wasting diseases. The average weight gain in athletes is 5 to 10 pounds. However, not all of the increase is actual muscle. When creatine is taken up into the muscle cell, it brings water with it. This water uptake provides a plausible explanation for the reports of dehydration, heat intolerance and muscle cramps associated with creatine use.