I supplement with creatine---- love the stuff. It took me around 1 1/ 2 to 2 weeks, until I felt a little energy surge from it. I down the water all day while on it, and find the best time for me to take it, is within the first hour after working out. I usually hold an extra 4 pounds of water weight while on it. I think sometimes, with some products, it will pay to buy the better brand. Not the generic stuff. While on creatine, I have to make sure I stick with a clean diet, or with that extra water I tend to hold, I feel bloated. Anyhoo- just a womens view on the stuff