In response to speculative media reports citing a questionable source linked to the recent tragedy in Santa Barbara, Calif., the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), the leading trade association representing the dietary supplement industry, issued the following statement:

Statement by Duffy MacKay, N.D., senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs, CRN: 

“Following the tragic killings in Santa Barbara last Friday, it’s natural for us all to speculate on what may have contributed to this tragedy. Unfortunately, speculation often results in damaging rumors, one of which we feel compelled to respond to. Some media reports have inappropriately attempted to link the use of creatine to this tragedy. Those reports have been followed by other media stories disputing that possibility, noting that the original source fabricated his relationship to the shooter. We are responding to the science surrounding creatine.

“These are the facts on creatine: Creatine is a popular dietary supplement for athletes, particularly weight lifters and sprinters, because of its ability to extend the time it takes to reach muscle fatigue. Creatine is also one of the most studied sports performance supplements, with more than 70 randomized controlled trials examining its effects. Creatine is not an anabolic steroid, nor is it a hormone. There is no reason to believe that using creatine would lead to psychological changes or side effects, to addiction or dependence, or to other safety risks.

“We extend our sympathies to the families and friends who lost their loved ones, and we regret having to step into the story. We urge the press to more carefully check their facts and more cautiously rely on their sources.”