Reduced seizure frequency with oral creatine supplementation: A case report

Abstract

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that is synthesized endogenously and obtained through dietary consumption. Oral supplementation with creatine monohydrate (CM) is commonly used to enhance exercise performance. There is increasing interest in the use of creatine supplementation to improve cognitive processing and in neurodegenerative disorders. Epilepsy is one of the most common, serious neurological conditions, and one-third of patients continue to have seizures despite treatment. Pre-clinical studies suggest that creatine may have a potential role as an anticonvulsant, however no studies in adult humans have been done. Here, we present a case in which a patient with drug-resistant epilepsy had a marked reduction in seizure frequency after supplementing with 5 g/day of creatine monohydrate. This case, together with pre-clinical evidence, provides preliminary clinical support for further exploration of creatine as a low-risk, adjunctive therapy in epilepsy, particularly for patients with drug-resistant forms.