Does a creatine supplement have any draw backs such as steroids?

Yes: Creatine can cause significant problems with cramping. Use cautiously to augment strength training.

Dr Ali and another doctor agreed

High urea or ammonia: May artificially increase level and creatinine but may not mean kidney failure. Rarely can increase ammonia levels if there is any underlying liver problem or metabolic disorders. Always check with your doctor before taking them.

Yes: Creatine can cause stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle cramping at regular doses. When taken in high doses, there is some concern that creatine could harm the kidney, liver, or heart function; a connection between high doses and these negative effects has not been proven. Creatine causes muscles to draw water from the rest of your body, and if exercising in the heat, may cause dehydration.

Safer than steroids.: Creatine in doses of 1000 to 5000mg daily has been shown to increase muscle mass, muscle size and muscle energy stores. Creatine must be taken with lots of water throughout the day, and doses must not exceed 5000mg daily to avoid impairment of kidney function. The dose can be taken all at once, preferably after exercise to facilitate ATP store replenishment in the muscles after exercise.