Four capsules contain: Creatine Ethyl Ester 3000 mg • Anbolic Insulin Response 151 mg: Bitter Melon , Alpha Lipoic Acid , Vanadyl Sulfate , Chromium Picolinate . Other Ingredients: Magnesium Stearate, Silicone Dioxide, Gelatin.
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Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Evolution CEE. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Evolution CEE. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Alpha-lipoic acid has been used with apparent safety in doses of up to 2 grams daily for 3 months to 2 years. Lower doses of 600 mg daily have been used with apparent safety for up to 4 years (3540,3541,3542,20479,96449,97630,101867,101869,103327,103333)(103335,104651,104660,113892,113897). ...when used topically and appropriately. A cream containing alpha-lipoic acid 5% has been used with apparent safety in clinical trials lasting up to 12 weeks (12021). ...when given intravenously and appropriately. Intravenous alpha-lipoic acid has been used safely in doses of up to 6000 mg weekly in clinical trials lasting up to 3 weeks (3540,3557,10148,12106).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately.
Alpha-lipoic acid has been used with apparent safety in doses of up to 600 mg daily for 3 months in children aged 10-17 years (103330).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in amounts over 600 mg daily.
At least five cases of alpha-lipoic acid intoxication have been reported for children aged 14 months to 16 years who consumed alpha-lipoic acid at doses up to 226 mg/kg (approximately 2400 mg). Symptoms of alpha-lipoic acid-induced intoxication included seizures, acidosis, vomiting, and unconsciousness (90444,96227,96234,104653).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term.
Alpha-lipoic acid has been used safely during pregnancy at doses up to 600 mg daily for up to 4 weeks (96222).
LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the fruit is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Powdered bitter melon fruit 0.5-12 grams daily for up to 4 months has been used (92126,100631,100632,109583). Extracts of bitter melon fruit have also been used safely for up to 3 months (36,15566,106408). There is insufficient reliable information available about long-term use of bitter melon or the safety of bitter melon when used topically.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally.
Animal research shows that two proteins isolated from the raw fruit of bitter melon possess abortifacient properties (3724,35719,35722,35728). Also, one animal study shows that bitter melon juice significantly reduces the fertility rate of mice (35728). However, these effects of bitter melon have not been assessed in humans.
LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short-term. Chromium has been safely used in doses up to 1000 mcg daily for up to 6 months (1934,5039,5040,6858,6859,6860,6861,6862,6867,6868)(7135,7137,10309,13053,14325,14440,17224,90057,90061)(90063,94234,95095,95096,95097,98687); however, most of these studies have used chromium doses in a range of 150-600 mcg. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Institute of Medicine (IOM) evaluations of the safety of chromium suggest that it is safe when used in doses of 200 mcg daily for up to 6 months (13241,13242).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, long-term. Chromium has been safely used in a small number of studies at doses of 200-1000 mcg daily for up to 2 years (7060,7135,42618,42628,42666,110605,110607,110609). However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Institute of Medicine (IOM) evaluations of the safety of chromium suggest that it is safe when used in doses of 200 mcg daily for up to 6 months (13241,13242).
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately in amounts not exceeding the daily adequate intake (AI) levels by age: 0-6 months, 0.
2 mcg; 7-12 months, 5.5 mcg; 1-3 years, 11 mcg; 4-8 years, 15 mcg; males 9-13 years, 25 mcg; males 14-18 years, 35 mcg; females 9-13 years, 21 mcg; females 14-18 years, 24 mcg (7135). POSSIBLY SAFE...when used orally and appropriately in amounts exceeding AI levels. Chromium 400 mcg daily has been used safely for up to 6 weeks (42680).
PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately in amounts not exceeding adequate intake (AI) levels.
The AI for pregnancy is 28 mcg daily for those 14-18 years of age and 30 mcg daily for those 19-50 years of age (7135).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally in amounts exceeding the adequate intake (AI) levels.
There is some evidence that patients with gestational diabetes can safely use chromium in doses of 4-8 mcg/kg (1953); however, patients should not take chromium supplements during pregnancy without medical supervision.
LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately in amounts not exceeding adequate intake (AI) levels.
The AI for lactation is 44 mcg daily for those 14-18 years of age and 45 mcg daily for those 19-50 years of age (7135). Chromium supplements do not seem to increase normal chromium concentration in human breast milk (1937). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of chromium when used in higher amounts while breast-feeding.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Creatine supplementation appears to be safe when used at loading doses of up to 25 grams daily or 0.3 grams/kg daily for up to 14 days in healthy adults (1367,2100,2101,3996,4569,10064,15354,15520,46570,46587)(46673,46688,46719,46753,46801,103278,103279,108336). Creatine supplementation also appears to be safe when used at maintenance doses of 4-5 grams daily for up to 18 months (2101,4578,15353,15354,15520,46587,46673,46690,46753,46838,102164,103278,108336).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, long-term. Creatine supplementation has been safely used at doses of up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 years in some preliminary clinical research (1367,3996). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of creatine when used topically.
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately.
Creatine supplementation appears to be safe when used in appropriate doses in infants and children. Creatine 3-5 grams daily for 2-6 months has been safely used in children 5-18 years of age (6182,46596,46739,46841). Creatine 2 grams daily for 6 months has been safely used in children 2-5 years of age (46841). Additionally, weight-based dosing of creatine 0.1-0.4 grams/kg daily in infants and children or 4.69 grams/m2 in children weighing over 40 kg has been used safely for up to 6 months (46623,46629,46694,46759,104672).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Vanadium is safe when taken in amounts below the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.8 mg daily (7135).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally in high doses. Taking more than the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.8 mg daily can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and theoretically, kidney toxicity (7135). In some cases, patients with diabetes have used very high doses (100 mg daily) safely for up to 4 weeks (3055,3056,3057). However, there is concern that prolonged use of high doses might cause serious side effects including kidney damage (7135). Doses of 22.5 mg daily for five months can cause cramps and diarrhea (3012).
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts found in foods (7135).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of vanadium when used in amounts greater than those typically found in foods.
PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts found in foods (7135).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in medicinal amounts.
Epidemiological research has found that increased urinary levels of vanadium are associated with an increased risk of both term and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM). When comparing tertiles of urinary vanadium levels, patients in the middle tertile had 1.66 times the risk of term PROM when compared with the lowest tertile, and those in the highest tertile had 3.75 times the risk. For preterm PROM (rupture prior to 37 weeks' gestation), those in the highest tertile had an 8.14 times increased risk when compared with those in the lowest tertile (99052). Epidemiological research has also found that higher prenatal serum levels of vanadium are associated with impaired fetal growth, particularly in male newborns. The risk appears greatest with vanadium exposure in the second trimester (102096).
LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts found in foods (7135).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of vanadium when used in amounts greater than those typically found in foods; avoid using.
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Evolution CEE. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
 Details
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals (391). However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells (14012,14013). More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.
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Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
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In vitro, alpha-lipoic acid inhibits platelet aggregation (98682).
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Theoretically, taking alpha-lipoic acid with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
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Although some small clinical studies have suggested that alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood glucose levels (3545,3874,3875,3876,20490,20493,104650), larger clinical studies in patients with diabetes have shown no clinically meaningful effect (20494,20495,20496,90443,90445,110118). Additionally, co-administration of single doses of alpha-lipoic acid and glyburide or acarbose did not cause detectable drug interactions in healthy volunteers (3870).
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Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
Details
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs, which work by generating free radicals (391). However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells (14012,14013). More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.
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Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormone drugs.
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Animal research suggests that co-administration of thyroxine with alpha-lipoic acid reduces conversion into the active T3 form (8946).
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Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
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Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
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Bitter melon might inhibit the p-glycoprotein (P-gp) intestinal pump and increase intracellular levels of P-gp substrates. In vitro research in intestinal cells shows that 1-monopalmitin, a constituent of bitter melon, increases levels of daunomycin, a P-gp substrate (97509). Additionally, drinking bitter melon juice has been associated with a case of acute pancreatitis in a patient who had been taking pazopanib, a P-gp substrate, for 8 years. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-gp led to increased levels of pazopanib, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis (109581).
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Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
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In one case, a 65-year-old patient taking pazopanib for 8 years for renal cell carcinoma experienced signs and symptoms consistent with acute pancreatitis 4 days after drinking bitter melon juice at a dose of 100-150 mL daily. The patient's symptoms, amylase levels, and lipase levels improved upon discontinuation of bitter melon and pazopanib. Pazopanib treatment was re-initiated with no further evidence of pancreatitis. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-glycoprotein by bitter melon led to increased levels of pazopanib, a P-glycoprotein substrate, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis (109581).
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Theoretically, chromium may have additive effects with antidiabetic agents and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
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Theoretically, aspirin might increase chromium absorption.
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Animal research suggests that aspirin may increase chromium absorption and chromium levels in the blood (21055).
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Theoretically, concomitant use of chromium and insulin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
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Chromium might bind levothyroxine in the intestinal tract and decrease levothyroxine absorption.
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Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that taking chromium picolinate 1000 mcg with levothyroxine 1 mg decreases serum levels of levothyroxine by 17% when compared to taking levothyroxine alone (16012). Advise patients to take levothyroxine at least 30 minutes before or 3-4 hours after taking chromium.
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NSAIDs might increase chromium levels in the body.
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Drugs that are prostaglandin inhibitors, such as NSAIDs, seem to increase chromium absorption and retention (7135).
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Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
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In vitro research shows that the sodium orthovanadate form of vanadium prolongs clotting time, likely through inhibition of thrombin and factor Xa (3054).
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Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
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Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Evolution CEE. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
General
...Alpha-lipoic acid appears to be generally well tolerated when used orally, intravenously, or topically.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.
Topically: Irritation and rash.
Intravenously: Nausea and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Case reports have raised concerns about insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS).
Cardiovascular ...Orally, hypotension has been reported rarely in a clinical trial (104650).
Dermatologic ...Orally, skin rash and itching have been reported after use of alpha-lipoic acid (16391,20490,21674,96233,104650). Topically, alpha-lipoic acid can cause local irritation, including burning, stinging, mild rash, or contact dermatitis (12021,30836,111701). In one case, an 86-year-old female developed allergic contact dermatitis with severe itching and oozing after applying alpha-lipoic acid 5% cream to her lower extremities. The patient had a positive skin patch test for alpha-lipoic acid, confirming the causative agent (111701). In another case, a 47-year-old female developed contact dermatitis characterized by a pruritic rash and labial adhesions hours after applying a 5% vulvar serum containing lipoic acid 0.9 grams, vitamin E, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol palmitate to the vulva to treat vulvar lichen sclerosis. Testing confirmed that the causative agent was alpha-lipoic acid (111704). Intravenously, local allergic reactions have occurred at the injection site (1547).
Endocrine ...Orally, at least 50 published cases of insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) thought to be associated with use of alpha-lipoic acid have been reported (16392,104656,104657,104658,104659,107893,112941). Most reported cases have been associated with alpha-lipoic acid supplements or enriched foods; IAS has not been reported with intake of alpha-lipoic acid in food. IAS has been linked to compounds, such as alpha-lipoic acid, that contain sulfhydryl groups, but it is unclear if taking alpha-lipoic acid with other drugs known to trigger IAS increases the risk (107893,112941). IAS is characterized by very high serum insulin levels and high titers of autoantibodies against endogenous insulin. Sulfhydryl groups interact with disulfide bonds of insulin, increasing its immunogenicity (112941). Symptoms include severe spontaneous hypoglycemic episodes, as well as hunger and neuroglycopenic symptoms such as blurred vision, weakness, confusion, dizziness, sweating, and palpitations (104656,104657,107893,112941). Time to onset of IAS ranges from 1 week to 4 months (107893). Most cases of IAS have been reported in Japan and have occurred in individuals with the human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*04:06 allele (16392,104656,107893). For patients of European decent, cases of IAS have mainly occurred in individuals with the HLA-DRB1*04:03 allele (104656,104658,104659,107893). This suggests that either of these alleles might produce a genetic predisposition to alpha-lipoic acid-associated IAS. Reported doses of alpha-lipoic acid have ranged from 200-800 mg daily, most commonly 600 mg daily (104656,104658,104659,107893). IAS-related hypoglycemic episodes have been treated with oral or intravenous glucose or sucrose, as well as prednisone. Episodes decline following discontinuation of alpha-lipoic acid, and insulin values normalize within 3-9 months (104656,104658,104659,107893).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting have been reported after use of alpha-lipoic acid (3557,12106,16391,20475,30844,96225,101868,103327,103328,103333)(103335,104650,104654,104655). Higher doses (1200-1800 mg daily) seem to cause more severe effects than lower doses (600 mg daily) (3557,20475,30844,96225). Alpha-lipoic acid may also cause a burning sensation from the throat to the stomach, abdominal discomfort, or bitter taste when used orally (20478,20490,21664,96225). Intravenously, alpha-lipoic acid can cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and vomiting. Adverse effects are more common in patients receiving higher intravenous doses (3557) and may be more common in the elderly (96225).
Genitourinary ...Orally, alpha-lipoic acid may cause urinary disorders (20479). Oral alpha-lipoic acid has also been associated with a change in urine odor (96225,103327).
Neurologic/CNS
...Orally, alpha-lipoic acid may cause headache (21664,103328,104655) or dizziness (104650).
Intravenously, paresthesias have been reported to worsen temporarily at the beginning of therapy. Also, intravenous alpha-lipoic acid can cause headache. Adverse effects are more common in patients receiving higher intravenous doses (3557).
General
...Orally, bitter melon is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, flatulence, headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Hypoglycemic coma and seizures (in children).
Dermatologic ...In one clinical study, two out of 31 patients taking bitter melon 4 grams daily experienced skin rash. Reports of skin rashes did not occur for patients taking bitter melon 2 grams daily (92126).
Endocrine ...Two cases of hypoglycemic coma have occurred in children after administration of a bitter melon tea (15568).
Gastrointestinal ...The most common adverse effects associated with bitter melon in clinical studies are gastrointestinal, such as heartburn, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort (92126,100632,100633,106408). In one study, these events occurred in about 3% to 16% of patients taking bitter melon (92126).
Neurologic/CNS ...Headaches, dizziness, and fatigue have been reported after the ingestion of bitter melon (15568,92126,100633,112372). In one clinical study, about 5% of patients taking bitter melon 2-4 grams daily reported dizziness (92126). Two cases of seizures have occurred in children after administration of a bitter melon tea (15568).
Renal ...In one case report, a 60-year-old female was diagnosed with acute interstitial nephritis after a gradual decline in renal function over 9 months. The patient later admitted to taking bitter melon extract 600 mg daily for 3 months followed by 1200 mg daily for 4 months for diabetes. Upon discontinuation of bitter melon and treatment with prednisolone, serum creatinine levels returned to baseline within 3 months (109582).
General
...Orally, chromium is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal irritation, headaches, insomnia, irritability, mood changes.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Rare cases of kidney and liver damage, rhabdomyolysis, and thrombocytopenia have been reported.
Dermatologic
...Orally, chromium-containing supplements may cause acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (42561), skin rashes (42679), and urticaria (17224).
Also, chromium picolinate or chromium chloride may cause systemic contact dermatitis when taken orally, especially in patients with contact allergy to chromium (6624,90058). In one clinical study, a patient taking chromium nicotinate 50 mcg daily reported itchy palms that improved after the intervention was discontinued. It is unclear of this effect was due to the chromium or another factor (95096).
Topically, hexavalent chromium, which can be present in some cement, leather products, or contaminated soil, may cause allergic contact dermatitis (42645,42789,90060,90064,110606).
A case of lichen planus has been reported for a patient following long-term occupational exposure to chromium (42688).
Endocrine ...Orally, cases of hypoglycemia have been reported for patients taking chromium picolinate 200-1000 mcg daily alone or 200-300 mcg two or three times weekly in combination with insulin (42672,42783). Chromium picolinate has also been associated with weight gain in young females who do not exercise and in those following a weight-lifting program (1938).
Gastrointestinal
...Orally, chromium in the form of chromium picolinate, chromium polynicotinate, chromium-containing brewer's yeast, or chromium-containing milk powder may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, flatulence, or gastrointestinal upset (14325,42594,42607,42622,42643,42679).
Long-term exposure to heavy metals, including chromium, has been associated with increased risk of gallbladder disease and cancer (42682,42704).
Genitourinary ...Orally, chromium polynicotinate has been associated with disrupted menstrual cycles in patients taking the supplement to prevent weight gain during smoking cessation (42643).
Hematologic ...Anemia, hemolysis, and thrombocytopenia were reported in a 33 year-old female taking chromium picolinate 1200-2400 mcg daily for 4-5 months (554). The patient received supportive care, blood product transfusions, and hemodialysis and was stabilized and discharged a few days later. Lab values were normal at a one-year follow-up.
Hepatic ...Liver damage has been reported for a 33-year-old female taking chromium picolinate 1200 mcg daily for 4-5 months (554). Also, acute hepatitis has been reported in a patient taking chromium polynicotinate 200 mcg daily for 5 months (9141). Symptoms resolved when the product was discontinued. Two cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported in patients who took a specific combination product (Hydroxycut), which also contained chromium polynicotinate in addition to several herbs (13037).
Musculoskeletal ...Acute rhabdomyolysis has been reported for a previously healthy 24-year-old female who ingested chromium picolinate 1200 mcg over a 48-hour time period (42786). Also, chromium polynicotinate has been associated with leg pain and paresthesia in patients taking the supplement to prevent weight gain during smoking cessation (42643).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, chromium picolinate may cause headache, paresthesia, insomnia, dizziness, and vertigo (6860,10309,14325,42594). Vague cognitive symptoms, slowed thought processes, and difficulty driving occurred on three separate occasions in a healthy 35-year-old male after oral intake of chromium picolinate 200-400 mcg (42751). Transient increases in dreaming have been reported in three patients with dysthymia treated with chromium picolinate in combination with sertraline (2659). A specific combination product (Hydroxycut) containing chromium, caffeine, and ephedra has been associated with seizures (10307). But the most likely causative agent in this case is ephedra.
Psychiatric ...Orally, chromium picolinate has been associated with irritability and mood changes in patients taking the supplement to lose weight, while chromium polynicotinate has been associated with agitation and mood changes in patients taking the supplement to prevent weight gain during smoking cessation (6860,42643).
Renal
...Orally, chromium picolinate has been associated with at least one report of chronic interstitial nephritis and two reports of acute tubular necrosis (554,1951,14312).
Laboratory evidence suggests that chromium does not cause kidney tissue damage even after long-term, high-dose exposure (7135); however, patient- or product-specific factors could potentially increase the risk of chromium-related kidney damage. More evidence is needed to determine what role, if any, chromium has in potentially causing kidney damage.
Intravenously, chromium is associated with decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in children who receive long-term chromium-containing total parenteral nutrition - TPN (11787).
Topically, burns caused by chromic acid, a hexavalent form of chromium, have been associated with acute chromium poisoning with acute renal failure (42699). Early excision of affected skin and dialysis are performed to prevent systemic toxicity.
Other ...Another form of chromium, called hexavalent chromium, is unsafe. This type of chromium is a by-product of some manufacturing processes. Chronic exposure can cause liver, kidney, or cardiac failure, pulmonary complications, anemia, and hemolysis (9141,11786,42572,42573,42699). Occupational inhalation of hexavalent chromium can cause ulceration of the nasal mucosa and perforation of the nasal septum, and has been associated with pneumoconiosis, allergic asthma, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory tract cancer and even stomach and germ cell cancers (42572,42573,42601,42610,42636,42667,42648,42601,42788,90056,90066). Although rare, cases of interstitial pneumonia associated with chromium inhalation have been reported. Symptoms resolved with corticosteroid treatment (42614).
General
...Orally, creatine is generally well-tolerated.
Topically, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Dehydration, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, muscle cramps, and water retention.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Case reports have raised concerns about interstitial nephritis, renal insufficiency, rhabdomyolysis, and venous thrombosis.
Cardiovascular
...Some research suggests that creatine supplementation can cause edema.
In a randomized controlled trial, 26% of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) receiving creatine 10 grams daily reported edema after 2 months of treatment compared to 9% with placebo. The difference between groups was statistically significant at 2 months but not at month 4 and beyond. Creatine is believed to cause slight water retention, which may have been more apparent in patients who were immobilized due to ALS (46647). While this adverse drug reaction did not lead to worsening cardiac function in these patients, theoretically, creatine-related water retention could worsen congestive heart failure or hypertension.
There is one case report of lone atrial fibrillation in a 30-year-old male vegetarian. He started powdered creatine 20 grams daily for 5 days, followed by 2.5 grams daily for a month. However, he discontinued powdered creatine due to severe cramping and diarrhea, and reinitiated creatine supplementation a month later with an encapsulated formulation. Aside from gelatin in the capsule, creatine was the only ingredient listed in both formulations. During the loading dose phase, the patient developed dyspnea and palpitations and was diagnosed with lone atrial fibrillation in the emergency department. Symptoms resolved with treatment and supplement discontinuation (13187). Theoretically, alterations in electrolyte balance due to dehydration or diarrhea could lead to conduction abnormalities and arrhythmia; however, in this case, the patient had normal electrolyte levels. Contaminants in dietary supplements might also be responsible for adverse reactions; this specific creatine product was not tested for contaminants. It remains unclear whether creatine was associated with this event.
Theoretically, taking creatine nitrate might reduce blood pressure and heart rate due to its nitrate component. However, clinical research shows that creatine nitrate 12 grams daily for 7 days followed by 3 grams daily for 21 days does not lower blood pressure or heart rate acutely or chronically when compared to creatine monohydrate or placebo (95959).
Dermatologic
...In a small clinical trial of older, healthy males, one subject out of the 10 receiving creatine 5 grams four times daily for 10 days followed by 4 grams daily for 20 days reported a skin rash during the study.
The type and severity of rash and whether it resolved after creatine was discontinued were not discussed (4572). Also, skin rash has been reported by patients taking celecoxib and creatine; however, whether this effect was due to creatine or celecoxib is unclear (46706).
Topically, burning, itching, redness, irritation, and perception of changes in skin temperature have been reported (104669).
Endocrine ...Creatine may influence insulin production (11330). In human research, insulin levels increased 120 and 240 minutes after creatine supplementation (46760); however, there was no effect in another trial (46732). In a clinical study, 0.3 grams/kg of creatine daily for one week significantly increased cortisol levels by 29%. However, the levels returned to baseline at week 2 (46615).
Gastrointestinal
...Some small clinical studies have reported diarrhea and vomiting with oral creatine supplementation (4584,11332,46562,46684,46698,46704,104673).
Also, gastrointestinal distress, transient abdominal discomfort, constipation, heartburn, and nausea have been reported by a small number of individuals in randomized, controlled clinical trials (4572,11332,46527,46528,46573,46589,46622,46668,46684,46695), (46704,46771,95964,104668,104669,104673,108316). However, most high-quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase the incidence of gastrointestinal upset (103102,103278,103279).
Undissolved creatine powder may cause gastroenteritis (1368). Additionally, simultaneous intake of creatine and caffeine powder may increase the occurrence of gastrointestinal distress (95964).
Hematologic ...There are two case reports of creatine-related venous thrombosis in otherwise healthy adults. In the first case, an active 18-year-old male who had been taking an unspecified dose of creatine daily for 3 months was diagnosed with venous thrombosis via MRI. The patient reported increased thirst and fluid consumption when taking creatine. In the second case, an active 31-year-old male who had recently taken a 5-hour flight was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. He had been taking an unspecified dose of creatine. After stopping creatine and receiving anticoagulation therapy for 6 months, both patients' thromboses were resolved and did not recur. Researchers speculate that dehydration might be to blame for these adverse events, as dehydration increases the risk of thrombosis. In both cases, thrombophilic conditions were ruled out, and a temporal relationship between creatine consumption and thrombosis was established (90301). However, it remains unclear if creatine was responsible for these thrombotic events.
Hepatic
...Despite two case reports describing hepatic injury in patients taking creatine (46701,90319), meta-analyses and clinical studies specifically evaluating the safety of creatine have not identified an increased risk for hepatic injury (103278,103279).
In addition, population research suggests that there is not an association between creatine intake and liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatic steatosis. However, this study largely included subjects consuming less than 4 grams daily (112208).
One preliminary clinical trial specifically evaluated the effect of creatine loading and maintenance doses on hepatic function indices in healthy adults. No clinically significant changes in hepatic indices were reported in patients taking creatine loading doses of 20 grams daily for 5 days followed by maintenance doses of 3 grams daily for 8 weeks (46521). Another clinical study evaluated the impact of creatine monohydrate and creatine nitrate on liver function enzymes, showing no change in levels within 5 hours after the first dose of 12 grams or after continued consumption of 12 grams daily for 7 days followed by 3 grams daily for 21 days (95959). The patients that experienced hepatic injury in the available case reports were also taking other exercise supplements. Whether the reported adverse hepatic effects were due to creatine or the other supplements patients were taking is unclear. Also, neither of these case reports addressed whether the supplements were tested for contamination (46701,90319).
Musculoskeletal ...Creatine-associated increase in body mass is well documented in randomized, controlled clinical trials and is often as large as 1-2 kg during the five-day loading period of creatine (2101,4569,4589,4591,4600,4605,46504,46561,46815,46827)(46830,46843,95962,103279,112201). This may be considered an unwanted adverse reaction in some individuals and a desired effect of supplementation in others. This weight gain may interfere with mass-dependent activities such as running and swimming (46504,46823). Muscle cramping due to creatine supplementation has been reported in controlled clinical trials and may result from water retention in skeletal muscle (2104,4572,4584,30915,46562,46695,46826,46827,104673). However, most high quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries or muscle cramping (103102). In one case report, rhabdomyolysis in a weight lifter using creatine 25 grams daily over a one-year period has been reported (12820). Another case report describes an adult male who developed acute compartment syndrome of the leg after regular consumption of an unspecified amount of creatine and cocaine (112210).
Neurologic/CNS ...In clinical research, thirst, sleepiness, mild headache, and syncope have been reported for patients taking creatine, although the events were uncommon (46578,46615,46820). More serious adverse events have been reported for patients taking creatine in combination with other ingredients. A case of ischemic stroke has been reported for an athlete who consumed creatine monohydrate 6 grams, caffeine 400-600 mg, ephedra 40-60 mg, and a variety of other supplements daily for 6 weeks (1275). In another case, a 26 year old male reported with a hemorrhagic stroke linked to taking the supplement Jack3d, which contains creatine, DMAA, schizandrol A, caffeine, beta-alanine, and L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (90318). It is likely that these adverse events were due to other ingredients, such as caffeine, ephedra, and DMAA, which are known to have stimulant and vasoconstrictive properties.
Oncologic ...Population research shows that use of muscle building supplements such as creatine, protein, and androstenedione is associated with an increased odds of testicular germ cell cancer. This risk appears to be more apparent in early users, those using two or more muscle building supplements, and those with long-term use of the supplements. The odds of testicular germ cell cancer may be increased by up to 155% in males taking both creatine and protein supplements (90329). The risk of testicular germ cell cancer from creatine alone is unclear from this study.
Psychiatric ...Anxiety, irritability, depression, aggression, and nervousness have been reported in clinical research for patients taking creatine, although the effects are not common (46518). A case of acute organic psychosis was reported in a 32-year-old soldier in Iraq who was consuming excessive amounts of caffeine coupled with use of creatine (Creatamax, MaxiNutrition) one tablet twice daily for 3 weeks plus a specific stimulant containing bitter orange, guarana seed extract, and St. John's wort extract (Ripped Fuel Ephedra Free, Twinlabs) two tablets three times daily for 2 days prior to admission. The psychosis was considered likely due to caffeine consumption in combination with the stimulant supplement rather than creatine (37982).
Renal
...Isolated cases of renal dysfunction in patients taking creatine have been reported, including a case of interstitial nephritis in a healthy male (184) and a case of renal insufficiency in a football player (46828).
In contrast to these cases, several clinical studies and case reports have shown that creatine does not affect markers of renal function in healthy adults (2120,3996,4573,16535,46735,46749,46758,46779,46813,95959,103279). Doses studied included 5- to 7-day loading regimens of 12 to 21 grams daily (2120,46813), or maintenance doses of 3-10 grams daily for up to 2 years (16535,46712,46758,95959). In two additional studies, creatine supplementation 15.75 grams for 5 days followed by 4.25 grams daily for 20 days with carbohydrate and protein ingestion led to no change of renal stress markers (46844). Other clinical research has shown that ingestion of creatine up to 30 grams daily for 5 years is not associated with an increased incidence of renal dysfunction (103102).
Other case reports involve patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction. For example, in one case, a patient with a history of recurrent renal failure developed relapsing steroid-responsive nephritis syndrome after taking creatine (1368,2118). In another case, a patient with diabetic nephropathy who was taking creatine and metformin developed severe metabolic acidosis and acute renal failure. It is unclear if creatine contributed to this event, as metformin alone is known to cause metabolic acidosis (46738). These case reports have raised concern that individuals with pre-existing renal dysfunction may be at increased risk for renal injury with creatine supplementation. However, no prospective clinical trials have been conducted in this population to clarify this concern.
In addition, two cases of acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia have been reported in 16 year old males that took 1-4 servings of creatine for less than 4 weeks; however, the creatine product contained unlabeled, very high doses of vitamin D, which is the likely cause of these symptoms (109739).
In one survey, 13% of male collegiate athletes taking creatine reported dehydration (4584). The Association of Professional Team Physicians has warned that creatine may cause dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and electrolyte imbalances, and reduce blood volume. Mild transient dehydration resulting in an elevated serum creatinine was also reported in a single person in a clinical trial (104672). However, a study found that creatine supplementation during preseason football training had no effect on fluid or electrolyte status (46845). Additionally, most high quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase dehydration (103102). A theoretical increase in risk of dehydration due to intracellular fluid shifts has led most creatine manufacturers to caution about adequate hydration with creatine supplementation (4576).
Other
...There have been reports of heat intolerance with oral creatine supplementation (46505).
Increases in formaldehyde production have been reported with creatine use. A-24 year-old man taking supratherapeutic doses of creatine monophosphate in combination with an energy supplement developed malignant hyperthermia after undergoing anesthesia. His symptoms included tachycardia, hypertension, hypercarbia, and hyperthermia. Environmental factors are suspected to have played a role in the development of malignant hyperthermia, so whether this adverse event was due to creatine at all is unclear (46717).
In 1997, three collegiate wrestlers died after engaging in a rapid weight-loss program in order to qualify for competition (93628). Initially creatine supplementation was considered to have contributed to or caused these deaths (12820,93629); however, investigations by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) did not confirm this belief (12820,93630). It appears that only one of the three wrestlers had been using creatine. Instead, the deaths were related to drastic, short-term weight loss in which the wrestlers wore rubber suits, avoided hydration, and performed workouts in rooms with temperatures up to 33 °C (1368,93631).
General
...Orally, vanadium is well tolerated when taken in amounts below the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.
8 mg daily. Higher doses may cause adverse effects.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal adverse effects, including abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, flatulence, and nausea, when taken at doses above the UL.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Kidney damage, when taken long-term at high doses.
Topically: Contact dermatitis and other allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Cardiovascular ...Higher levels of vanadium in the body have been associated with a greater risk for hypertension (107923). However, it is unclear if oral supplementation with vanadium causes elevated blood pressure.
Dermatologic ...Allergic reactions to vanadium metal have been reported (99051,102095). A 68-year-old female developed an itchy, erythematous rash, ocular pruritus, and a positive skin test to vanadium after implantation of a vanadium-containing knee prosthesis (99051). Contact dermatitis, presenting as pruritic eczema of the hand, and a positive skin patch test to vanadium was reported in a 39-year-old male who worked with vanadium-containing tools (102095).
Endocrine ...In some cases, patients with diabetes have used very high doses (100 mg daily) safely for up to 4 weeks (3055,3056,3057). However, high body levels of vanadium have been associated with an increased incidence malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus (3020).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, vanadium most commonly causes mild gastrointestinal upset (7135). There is concern that taking doses exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 1.8 mg per day can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and possibly lead to more severe toxicity. At higher doses, vanadium frequently causes gastrointestinal effects including abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, and flatulence (3012,3055,3056,3057,12557,12558). Doses of 22.5 mg daily can also cause cramps (3012). Vanadium has also been associated with green discoloration of the tongue, which is unrelated to dose (7135).
Immunologic
...Allergic reactions to vanadium metal have been reported (99051,102095).
A 68-year-old female developed an itchy, erythematous rash, ocular pruritus, and a positive skin test to vanadium after implantation of a vanadium-containing knee prosthesis (99051). Contact dermatitis, presenting as pruritic eczema of the hand, and a positive skin patch test to vanadium was reported in a 39-year-old male who worked with vanadium-containing tools (102095).
Higher levels of vanadium in the body have been associated with a weakened immune system in children, as measured by reductions in CD3+ and CD4+ cell counts (107924). However, it is unclear if oral supplementation with vanadium causes a weakened immune system or increases the risk of infection.
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, vanadium has been rarely associated with fatigue, lethargy, and focal neurological lesions, which are unrelated to dose (7135).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Severe and chronic respiratory tract disorders have been reported from occupational exposure to vanadium dusts (17).
Renal ...In some cases, patients with diabetes have used very high doses (100 mg daily) of vanadium safely for up to 4 weeks (3055,3056,3057). However, there is concern based on animal research that prolonged use of high doses might cause serious side effects including kidney damage (7135). High body levels of vanadium have also been associated with an increased incidence of kidney stones, distal renal tubular acidosis, hypokalemic periodic paralysis, and sudden unexplained nocturnal death (3020).
