There was a significant decrease in blood lactate accumulation in the supplemented group. The majority of those who showed a beneficial response were involved in short bursts of high-intensity effort. There was little benefit in anaerobic events lasting longer than 60 seconds. Moreover, there is evidence of faster recovery after sprints. Most researchers now agree that creatine supplementation, combined with a weight training program, will result in weight gain and increased strength.
Recent evidence exposes potentially serious problems with creatine use.
In 1997, the deaths of three wrestlers were possibly related to creatine use, although this has not been confirmed. According to Dr William Bryan, team physician of the Houston Astros and a member of PTP, the major risk of creatine use is dehydration. Furthermore, other potential deleterious effects include heat-related illnesses, reduced blood plasma volume, tetanic muscle cramping, muscle strain, and electrolyte imbalance. The effect on cardiac muscle is unknown at this time. Further studies will undoubtedly be forthcoming.