Is Creatine a Nootropic?

October 20, 2023

Nootropic supplements are becoming increasingly popular due to their versatile benefits for various users. Many of them are available over-the-counter and some may serve as anti-anxiety supplements. Some people, especially athletes, also take creatine as a supplement. 

With any supplement or nootropic, it’s important to understand what you’re taking and why you’re taking it. Not every substance affects users in the same way, which is why you should always consult with a medical professional before taking any nootropic or supplement.

Today, we’ll talk about creatine and nootropics so you can understand these impressive wellness tools better. You should always be informed about what you’re putting in your body, and we’re here to help.

What Are Nootropics?

Also known as ‘smart drugs,’ nootropics are substances that people can take to improve their cognition and mental health (1). They’re available as synthetic compounds, natural dietary supplements, and prescription medications. 

Prescription medications are FDA-regulated, and over-the-counter products are not. You’ll need a prescription from a medical provider for some nootropics, but most can be obtained legally without one.

Many different substances can improve cognitive function and mental health, like L-theanine, so is L-theanine a nootropic? Due to its effects on the brain (2), this compound is considered one. 

What about substances like nicotine, which most people don’t consider a supplement? Is nicotine a nootropic, too? It is–people have started taking it as a nootropic in the form of gum. 

This substance is said to have many side effects, though, so you should strongly research nicotine before taking it. Other nootropics have not been heavily researched for safety (1), and for that reason, it’s important to read up on anything you’re about to take and consult with a healthcare professional.

What Is Creatine?

Creatine is an amino acid that’s found naturally in your body and in seafood, red meat, and as a supplement. People take it to increase their muscle mass and improve their athletic abilities (3). Research on creatine shows it can reduce muscle cramping and injuries and improve your performance on cognitive tasks; research also shows creatine can be relatively safe for people without kidney issues, when taken as directed (3). 

Because creatine can improve your physical performance, you may be wondering whether athletes are allowed to take it without jeopardizing their good standing with their athletic organization. This supplement is permitted to be taken by athletes who adhere to International Olympic Committee and National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) rules (4).

So, Is Creatine a Nootropic?

While creatine is more commonly used for exercise than as a nootropic, it can be considered one. One study showed that this amino acid can improve short-term memory and reasoning abilities (5). The findings in this study suggest that creatine is helpful for people under stress, as well as those who are aging. For these reasons, we may start to see more research on the possible cognitive benefits of taking creatine. 

To Wrap It Up

Creatine has been popular at gyms and in sports for years, but it can  also be effective at improving cognitive function, qualifying it as a nootropic. It’s generally considered to be safe to take over-the-counter, so most people can take it without any issues. 

If you still have concerns, talk to your doctor to see if creatine is right for you. Shop our selection today to find a nootropic that can help you achieve your goals!

Legal Disclaimer

This product has not been approved by the US FDA. All statements on this page are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the US FDA.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. See more

---

Sources:

1. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/features/nootropics-smart-drugs-overview
2. https://trysourse.com/blogs/news/nootropic-you-should-know-l-theanine#:~:text=L%2Dtheanine%E2%80%94a%20natural%20component,also%20available%20in%20supplement%20form
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-creatine/art-20347591
4. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-873/creatine
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29704637/