Creatinine · high result
What does a high Creatinine mean?
Short answer
Creatinine is a waste product cleared by the kidneys; a high level means the kidneys are filtering less — or that there is more muscle producing it. Dehydration, high meat intake, creatine supplements, intense exercise and certain medications (NSAIDs, some blood-pressure drugs, trimethoprim) raise it transiently. eGFR translates creatinine into kidney function; a persistent eGFR under 60 for three months defines chronic kidney disease.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- A sharp rise in creatinine with very little urine, swelling or breathlessness — same-day care
What is the normal range for Creatinine?
- Male, age 18+: 0.740 – 1.35 mg/dL
- Female, age 18+: 0.590 – 1.04 mg/dL
Often reflects reduced kidney function, dehydration, or high muscle mass; medications can also raise it.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Creatinine biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high Creatinine?
- Dehydration
- Acute or chronic kidney disease (diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes)
- High muscle mass, creatine supplements, large meat meals, intense exercise
- Medications: NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors/ARBs (small rise expected), trimethoprim, cimetidine, some antibiotics
- Urinary obstruction (enlarged prostate, stones)
What symptoms go with high Creatinine?
- Usually none until kidney function is significantly reduced
- Swelling, fatigue, reduced urine output, nausea when advanced
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Repeat well-hydrated, without creatine or heavy exercise for 48 hours
- Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and urinalysis
- Cystatin C–based eGFR when muscle mass could be skewing creatinine
- Blood pressure and A1c review; kidney ultrasound if persistently reduced
How do you recheck Creatinine?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Metabolic Panel | Test · 8 biomarkers | $20.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Can creatine supplements raise creatinine?
Yes — creatine breaks down to creatinine, so users often read slightly high without any kidney problem. Stop for a few days and repeat, or ask for a cystatin C.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.