Creatine HCl is a form of Creatine which is bound to Hydrochloric Acid. It has been advertised as an alternative to Creatine Monohydrate, with companies claiming it is superior due to its water-solubility and lack of water retention. We have to note, that just because Creatine HCl is more soluble in water, this does not mean it has superior absorption to Creatine Monohydrate.

Now just because it is not necessarily better than CM, does not mean it isn’t effective. Just to note, Creatine is one of the most proven supplements on the market for sports performance purposes, with plenty of studies to back it up.

So what, if any, are some positive aspects to C-HCl as opposed to CM? Well, C-HCl has a study, showing it to be potentially better in terms of body composition compared to CM. At a closer glance at this study, the differences were insignificant.

With that said, Creatine Monohydrate is much more economical than Creatine HCl. Therefore, we usually advise people to opt for using CM as opposed to C-HCl, unless CM gives you GI distress.

Another aspect to C-HCl we have to mention is that when taken as a standalone, it has a strong bitter/sour flavor to it due to the HCl. 

You’ll typically find C-HCl as a standalone, however it can also be found in pre-workouts, as well as some post-workout supplements.

In pre-workouts, you’ll typically find it paired with Beta-Alanine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Betaine Anhydrous, and L-Citrulline.

Creatine HCl may cause nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, cramps, dehydration, among more.

A simple way to avoid side effects with Creatine is to stay hydrated.

Creatine HCl is typically dosed around 1.5 grams-2 grams in supplements.

The following products contain Creatine HCl at the recommended dosage, and are recommended supplements for Fitness Informant: