Creatine Supplementation and Acute Sleep Deprivation: A Systematic Review of Cognitive, Psychomotor, and Mood Outcomes
Abstract
Background: Acute sleep deprivation impairs cognitive, psychomotor, and mood outcomes, in part by reducing cerebral adenosine triphosphate (ATP) availability. Creatine supplementation may counter these effects by increasing phosphocreatine stores.Methods: Six databases were systematically searched (January 2006-May 2025) for studies investigating creatine's effects on cognitive, psychomotor, and mood outcomes during acute sleep deprivation.Results: Results were synthesized narratively. Of 160 records, five studies met the inclusion criteria. Early investigations indicate a positive trend for creatine supplementation as an intervention for acute sleep deprivation, though effects may vary by cognitive domain.Conclusion: Despite favorable early results, research is sparse, and future high-quality trials are needed.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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