What you need to know about creatine in Parkinson's now that NIH trial is reported negative

- The NET-PD LS-1 study was started in around 2007 in an effort to identify a potential disease modifying or symptomatic effect of creatine.

 - The study was stopped last week after an interim analysis revealed that it was unlikely that creatine would reveal a benefit for Parkinson’s disease. 

 - Creatine has its effects on the mitochondria (the part of the cells in the body known as the energy producing region)

- Creatine is also known to be an anti-oxidant

- Though the study did not meet criteria as “positive” for a symptomatic or disease modifying benefit, the investigators have amassed one of the largest longitudinal research datasets in history for a Parkinson’s disease trial.  There were over 1700 participants and the fact that they were followed long-term will bring a lot of important data to the field.

- There were (are) no safety concerns with creatine.

- There is no need to panic about whether to continue or to stop.  Just see your doctor and have a frank discussion. 

 - We should not forget that there was a randomized trial of creatine with resistance training that showed a benefit in Parkinson's disease.

- Here is the official statement from NINDS on the creatine results.

To read more books and articles by Michael S. Okun MD check Twitter @MichaelOkun and these websites with blogs and information on his books and http://parkinsonsecrets.com/ #EndingPD and https://www.tourettetreatment.com/