Related Experiment Videos
Lone atrial fibrillation associated with creatine monohydrate supplementation
1Department of Pharmacy, Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA.
Pharmacotherapy
|May 19, 2005
Summary
Young patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) should be screened for creatine supplement use. This case highlights creatine monohydrate as a potential reversible cause of AF in individuals without structural heart disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) in young adults without structural heart disease is uncommon.
- Identifying and addressing reversible causes is crucial for managing AF in this demographic.
- Common reversible causes include thyroid disorders, stimulant use, and alcohol intoxication.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old male presented with rapid ventricular response atrial fibrillation.
- Initial workup for common causes (thyroid, drug screen, alcohol) was negative.
- Further questioning revealed the patient's use of creatine monohydrate supplements.
Findings:
- Creatine monohydrate, a popular supplement for athletes and vegetarians, was identified as a potential trigger for AF.
- Anecdotal reports have previously suggested a link between creatine and arrhythmias.
- The patient's AF resolved after discontinuation of creatine and appropriate medical management.
Implications:
- Clinicians should inquire about herbal product and dietary supplement use, including creatine, in patients presenting with AF.
- Increased awareness and reporting of adverse effects from commonly used supplements are necessary.
- This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive patient history to uncover less common causes of cardiac arrhythmias.