# Creatine Use and Thromboembolism Risk in Athletes: A Case Report

**Authors:** Osama S Abdalla, Haseeb Mudassir, Hazel Green, Praveenkumar Katarki

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.99242 · Cureus · 2025-12-14

## TL;DR

This case report highlights a possible link between creatine use and increased risk of blood clots in athletes.

## Contribution

The paper presents a case report suggesting creatine may increase thrombosis risk, calling for a re-evaluation of its safety.

## Key findings

- A case of thromboembolism is reported in an athlete using creatine.
- Literature review suggests possible adverse vascular effects from creatine.
- Safety profile of creatine may need re-assessment due to thrombosis concerns.

## Abstract

Creatine monohydrate (Cr) is a widely used supplement in the sports and fitness industry, with its popularity continuing to rise. It is well known for its ability to maintain high-energy phosphate levels during intense physical activity, thereby enhancing performance. Documented benefits of creatine supplementation include enhanced muscular development, neuroprotective effects in certain neurodegenerative conditions, and potential cardiovascular advantages. Nonetheless, a growing body of reports has raised concerns regarding possible adverse vascular effects, particularly an increased risk of thrombosis. This case underscores the potential thrombotic risks associated with creatine use and highlights the need to re-evaluate its safety profile. In addition, we provide an updated review of the literature regarding this potentially serious adverse effect.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** Creatine monohydrate (PubChem CID 80116)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Thromboembolism (MESH:D013923), neurodegenerative (MESH:D019636), thrombosis (MESH:D013927)
- **Chemicals:** phosphate (MESH:D010710), Cr (MESH:D003401)

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

18 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12800716/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12800716