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What is Creatine Ethyl Ester? (Is It Dangerous?)

Isaac Robertson
Published by Isaac Robertson
Fact checked by Donald Christman, BHSc FACT CHECKED
Last updated: March 17, 2023
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Creatine ethyl ester (CEE) is one of six most popular forms of creatine. Many athletes prefer it to other forms of creatine because it can be taken in smaller doses with similar effects.

And since it enters the cells that form muscle tissue more effectively than other creatine supplements, it provides the user with superior muscle-building benefits.

Let's answer the most common questions!

Quick Summary

  • Creatine Ethyl Ester is one of the six forms of creatine and is taken in smaller dosages with similar effects to other forms of creatine.
  • This dietary supplement helps build muscle mass, improve your performance, and power.
  • Creatine Ethyl Ester doesn't need any form of cycle break when compared to other types of creatine.

Is Creatine Ethyl Ester Dangerous?

male nurse disgust face while raising up medicine pills and a glass of water

Even though every form of creatine is widely used, there's still not enough research on creatine ethyl ester to determine if it is entirely safe.

However, most users find it to be much gentler on the stomach compared to creatine monohydrate when it comes to supplementing with creatine when taken as directed.

As with other nutritional supplements, you mustn’t take more than the recommended dosage.

If you cross the line, you’re risking permanent kidney damage.

As long as your kidneys are healthy and function normally, you shouldn’t experience any severe side effects while using creatine ethyl ester cee.

Naturally, your body will need lots of water and moderate exercise to burn off the extra creatine supplements you consume.

This helps convert creatine ethyl ester into adenosine triphosphate — key for your muscle system working effectively.

Furthermore, athletes typically take creatine supplementation in cycles.

Bodybuilders and people trying to build body mass usually take 20 or more grams of creatine malate or creatine monohydrate once a day for 4–5 days and then take a break.

On the other hand, bodybuilders who use creatine ethyl ester only take a few grams of the supplement every day without taking breaks.

This is mainly because this supplement form is much more powerful and efficient in building muscle mass.

Essentially, supplementation with creatine ethyl ester shouldn’t be dangerous as long as you follow the instructions, watch the intake, drink lots of water, gradually increase your training difficulty to burn off the extra creatine you consume — something you’d do with any supplement.

How Pure It Is?

3 white pills and a white powder in a spoon

There’s no sure way to check how pure CEE is since creatine ethyl ester is typically made by breaking down more complex forms of creatine.

However, all types of creatine are mass-manufactured, so some brands may use more pure CEE than others.

Others may combine it with other ingredients to relieve the digestion process.

But, you'll have to check the product label or contact the manufacturer to get the details on its purity.

Pure creatine ethyl ester is much easier to absorb than other creatine groups.

Moreover, as it enters the bloodstream and is absorbed by the muscles, it also increases ATP production.

Even though the FDA hasn't released any significant warnings regarding creatine supplements, it's essential to remember that elevated creatine levels may lead to kidney deficiency.

Is It Better than Creatine Monohydrate?

man holding a dumbbell thinking

It’s not better or worse than other types. Researchers report that:

“Creatine ethyl ester did not show any additional benefit to increase muscle strength or performance than creatine monohydrate or maltodextose placebo. Additionally, total body mass, fat mass, fat-free mass, and thigh muscle mass were not significantly enhanced with creatine ethyl ester supplementation compared to placebo or creatine monohydrate groups.”

- Mike Spillane, Ryan Schoch, Matt Cooke, Travis Harvey, Mike Greenwood, Richard Kreider & Darryn S Willoughby

Some people find that certain supplement types work better for muscle building than others.

We know that taking creatine typically results in water retention and bloating. Even though research has proven that creatine ethyl ester is easier on the stomach than creatine monohydrate [1], it doesn't cause side effects as commonly as creatine monohydrate.

Moreover, it's richer in amino acids. We need to remember that each body is unique and responds differently to specific formulations.

It's essential to assess your limitations and personal preferences when it comes to sports nutrition.

That way, you'll find what's best for you.

The Bottom Line on Creatine Ethyl Ester

Creatine ethyl ester is an excellent dietary supplement for building muscle mass, power and bringing your performance to another level.

But better performance while training and weight gain aren't the only benefits. You'll also notice fast absorption, strength, and endurance increase.

Have you used this supplement? Share your experience in the comments!


References:

  1. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1550-2783-6-6
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