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Creatine supplementation does not damage healthy kidneys — studies up to 5 years show no harm. It does raise serum creatinine (a muscle-breakdown marker), which can confuse eGFR readings, and it should be avoided in known CKD.
Creatine is one of the most-studied supplements: long-term trials (up to 5 years, including elderly subjects) show no change in true kidney function. Markers like cystatin C — which is muscle-independent — stay normal.
Creatine raises serum creatinine because it increases creatine turnover — the lab value goes up while true filtration does NOT change. This can falsely lower eGFR and alarm clinicians; it's why disclosing creatine use to your doctor matters.
In established CKD or with one kidney, the safety margin narrows — most nephrologists advise avoiding creatine or using it only with kidney monitoring.
Practical rule: disclose creatine to your doctor; if eGFR looks low, cystatin C settles the question.
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This content is a general reference, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. Do not change your diet, fluids, medicines, or dialysis plan without your nephrologist or renal dietitian. Individual recommendations depend on your labs, medications, conditions, and care plan.