What is eGFR?
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) predicts how well your kidneys filter blood. It is calculated from serum creatinine, age, sex, and sometimes race. A normal eGFR is usually 90 or higher.
How does creatine affect eGFR?
Creatine breaks down into creatinine. Taking creatine supplements can raise blood creatinine, which may cause eGFR to appear slightly lower. This does not necessarily mean your kidneys are damaged.
What should creatine users do?
Inform your clinician that you take creatine before kidney function tests. They can interpret eGFR and creatinine in context and may adjust testing if needed.
Understanding the numbers
A small drop in eGFR after starting creatine is often just a lab artifact from increased creatinine production. True kidney damage would usually show a larger, persistent decline along with other symptoms or abnormal markers.
Should you stop creatine before testing?
There is no universal rule. Some clinicians may ask you to pause creatine for 1–2 weeks before testing to get a baseline. Others are comfortable interpreting results with creatine use disclosed.
Kidney-safe creatine use
- Use standard doses (3–5 g maintenance).
- Stay well hydrated.
- Monitor kidney function if you have risk factors.
- Always disclose supplement use to your healthcare provider.
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Open the free creatine calculatorFrequently asked questions.
Can creatine cause kidney disease?
Research in healthy adults does not show that standard creatine doses cause kidney disease.
Will my eGFR go back to normal if I stop creatine?
Serum creatinine usually returns to baseline within a few weeks of stopping creatine, which can raise eGFR back to its prior level.
Who should avoid creatine?
People with pre-existing kidney disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or those on nephrotoxic drugs should get medical advice first.
What is a normal eGFR?
90 or above is generally considered normal. Between 60–89 may be acceptable depending on age. Below 60 for three months suggests possible kidney disease.
Does creatine raise creatinine permanently?
No. Creatinine levels adjust based on creatine intake and typically return to baseline if you stop supplementing.
Should I worry if my eGFR drops slightly?
A small drop after starting creatine is usually not concerning, but discuss any abnormal result with your clinician.