Researchers at the University of Ottawa conducted a systematic review to investigate whether the popular sports supplement creatine could also help with depression. The analysis, published in the journal Brain Medicine, included five randomized controlled trials with a total of 238 participants.
The results are mixed: Two studies – both involving women with major depression – found that an additional five grams of creatine daily alleviated symptoms more effectively than a placebo. In one study, creatine was administered alongside the antidepressant escitalopram, and in another, it was given as an adjunct to cognitive behavioral therapy.
However, three other studies found no significant benefit – neither in treatment-resistant depression, nor in adolescent girls, nor in bipolar disorder. Furthermore, two participants with bipolar disorder developed mania while taking creatine, indicating potential risks in certain patient groups.
The scientists explain the potential effect through the brain's energy metabolism: Creatine supports the formation of ATP, the cellular energy carrier, and could also influence dopamine and serotonin. However, the authors emphasize that the existing studies are too small and too diverse to routinely recommend creatine for depression. Larger and longer studies are needed.
Source: Fares et al., University of Ottawa, published in Brain Medicine, June 30, 2026.
