This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examining the effects of creatine monohydrate supplementation on androgens and hair loss in free-living adult males. Participants will complete 6 months of supplementation of 5 grams per day of creatine monohydrate while following their normal lifestyle practices. At baseline and six months after study initiation, participants will complete laboratory assessments. These assessments will include a standard blood draw for evaluation of total testosterone (T), free T, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and DHT:T ratios in the blood, as well as global photography and questionnaires to evaluate hair loss. This study will examine the claim that creatine increases DHT concentrations and and DHT:T ratio, as well as provide novel data regarding whether creatine promotes hair loss.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
TRIPLE
Participants in the creatine monohydrate supplementation arm will consume 5 grams per day of creatine monohydrate.
Participants in the placebo supplementation arm will consume 5 grams per day of maltodextrin placebo.
Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management
Lubbock, Texas, United States
Dihydrotestosterone
Blood concentration of dihydrotestosterone.
Time frame: 6 months
Dihydrotestosterone-to-Testosterone Ratio 1
Ratio of dihydrotestosterone to total testosterone in the blood.
Time frame: 6 months
Dihydrotestosterone-to-Testosterone Ratio 2
Ratio of dihydrotestosterone to free testosterone in the blood.
Time frame: 6 months
Total Testosterone
Total testosterone in the blood.
Time frame: 6 months
Free Testosterone
Free testosterone in the blood.
Time frame: 6 months
Global Hair Assessments
Subjectively scored assessment of changes in hair properties from baseline to the end of the intervention. Assessor will be a blinded expert.
Time frame: 6 months
Self-Reported Hair Assessments
Survey allowing for participant-reported changes in hair properties as a result of the intervention.
Time frame: 6 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.