I've used creatine in the past (no longer due to tranplant) an had good gains; 10lbs in two months.. but it is what it is: water weight. Weight that is also lost between cycles.Some People would suggest cycling and some wouldn't.Long term effects on kidneys are not really known, are even studied; so I would go w/ cycling the creatine if you want to use it but be aware that if you add like 10lbs; only maybe like 2lbs will be actual muscle an 8lbs water.Also it shouldn't be used if you have any type of swelling from water retention b/c creatine will only make it worst an also avoid if you are on any type of fluid pill.Best type I ever used was effervescent creatine from Twinlab, however I don't think they make it anymore. It was awesome for absorption due to its easy uptake.Regular creatine may stay clump no matter how much it is filtered.TwinLab & ProLab are probly two the best brands however they are a bit pricey.Ultimate Nutrition is also an awesome company an has quality products, though they are not as flashy as the 2 mentioned and do not endorse any athletes/bodybuilders.Thus for the lower prices.APE.Byron