Use of Creatine Supplementation in the Prevention and Regression of Sarcopenia in Elderly

Sarcopenia is characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, affecting an individual's strength and function. It is a relatively prevalent condition in the elderly, hospitalized individuals, those confined to bed, those undergoing major surgical procedures or those with chronic wasting diseases. Once established, it increases the need for hospitalization, worsens acute or chronic conditions, increases hospital morbidity and mortality rates and post-surgical complications, prolongs hospital stays and raises hospital costs. Its pathophysiology involves an imbalance between protein synthesis and proteolysis in skeletal muscle tissue. A high-protein diet alone is insufficient to prevent this condition, making it necessary to administer nutritional supplements, protein support formulas or creatine monohydrate, as well as stimulating active or passive muscle activity.