"Creatine is not a hormone or a drug but a nutrient found in the skeletal muscle of most animals. It is used to reduce the recovery time of muscles, to increase muscle mass, and to thereby enhance performance for high-intensity, short duration exercises. It is readily available over the counter, which undoubtedly helps to explain the substantial levels of use we have found among teens.
"In 2024, past 12-month use maintained the large increases that took place during the pandemic from 2020 to 2021. In 12th and 10th grade, prevalence trended upward, and in 8th grade it held steady. In all grades, levels are at or near the highest recorded since the project first began tracking use of this substance in 2001. Prevalence in 2024 was 13% in 12th grade, 12% in 10th grade, and 5% in 8th grade.
"These results are consistent with the possibility of an increase in the proportion of adolescents involved in fitness and weightlifting that began during the social distancing policies during the pandemic and has since persisted."
Miech, R. A., Johnston, L. D., Patrick, M. E., & O'Malley, P. M. (2025). Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975–2024: Overview and detailed results for secondary school students. Monitoring the Future Monograph Series. Ann Arbor, MI: Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan.
