Tag: Creatine legality

While many student-athletes question the legality of creatine, the substance itself is not on the NCAA's official list of banned drugs. However, its use falls under a specific set of rules concerning dietary supplements, which can still carry significant risks for athletes.

Creatine is one of the most researched and widely used sports supplements globally, yet its legal status is a common point of confusion. Historically, France maintained a high-profile ban on its sale, contributing to a widespread misconception that some countries have banned creatine.

According to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), creatine is not and has never been on its list of prohibited substances. This means that for Premier League footballers, the use of creatine is perfectly legal and permissible under current anti-doping regulations. The decision stems from the fact that creatine is a naturally occurring compound, found in the body and in certain foods like meat and fish.

In October 2023, New York became one of the first US states to ban the sale of certain muscle-building and weight-loss supplements to minors, which is a primary reason you might need ID to buy creatine. This legislation and similar measures in other states have led retailers to implement strict age verification protocols to avoid legal repercussions. As a result, showing identification for a creatine purchase is becoming increasingly common, reflecting a shift towards greater oversight of supplement sales to minors.

According to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), creatine is not a prohibited substance for athletes. This clarifies a common misconception, confirming that for most uses, creatine supplements are legal and widely accepted in the fitness community.

Creatine is one of the most widely studied and used supplements in sports nutrition, prized for its ability to enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass. However, a common misconception is that creatine is banned by the FDA or heavily restricted, a belief often stemming from confusion with more heavily regulated substances. This article clarifies the regulatory truth about creatine's legal status in the U.S..