The most common, and best-studied form of supplemental creatine.  See Paul’s review, “Creatine Monohydrate: The Bodybuilding Wonder Supplement?” for more information.

A naturally-occurring, nitrogenous compound that – in the form of creatine phosphate – functions as a phosphagen: a storage form of phosphate for the production of ATP. Creatine can be consumed in the diet from animal protein, derived from the amino acids arginine, glycine and methionine, or taken in supplemental form.

Creatine supplements are taken by bodybuilders and other strength athletes to enhance lean body mass and strength.  Creatine also has therapeutic potential, and has been used experimentally to treat neuromuscular disorders.

See also: Creatine Monohydrate.

See Adenosine Triphosphate.

Also abbreviated as ATP.  Adenosine triphosphate is a multifunctional nucleotide. It’s the major energy “currency” used to drive energy-consuming activities within cells and is also used in the synthesis of RNA and DNA.  ATP supplements are marketed to enhance athletic performance, but the results of scientific studies have been equivocal.

See: Coenzyme Q10.

A naturally-occurring, fat-soluble compound in the ubiquinone family; Coenzyme Q10 is found in cell membranes and lipoproteins.  It’s required for the synthesis of mitochondrial ATP, and functions as an antioxidant.  Coenzyme Q10 has been used experimentally to treat cardiovascular and mitochondrial diseases. Coenzyme Q10 is often abbreviated as CoQ10.  It’s sold as a supplement in either its ubiquinone or reduced ubiquinol form.

See: the Linus Pauling Micronutrient Information Center for more information.

A non-protein amino acid that is converted to arginine in the urea cycle. L-citrulline and citrulline salts are often added to NO (nitric oxide) boosters to enhance NO production.   Citrulline may be a better source of supplemental arginine than arginine itself. When taken together, arginine and citrulline work synergistically to enhance NO production and improve blood flow.

Citrulline malate is a citrulline salt often found in NO (nitric oxide) boosters and other pre-workout supplements.  Citrulline malate can serve as a source of arginine for NO production, and promote aerobic energy production in exercising muscle. There is also some experimental evidence that it can promote resistance to muscle fatigue.

Chocamine is a proprietary cocoa extract produced by RFI Ingredients. It contains methylxanthines (caffeine and related compounds such as theobromine), neurotransmitter-related biogenic amines and flavonoid antioxidants.  Chocamine is used in several fat-burning and workout-boosters as a stimulant; and is also sold in bulk powder form.

See Caffeine.