Some studies have shown that larger athletes may need 5-10 grams each day to help maintain creatine levels. Factors Influencing EffectivenessDifferent factors can influence how well creatine works for you, such as:Baseline creatine levels: If your creatine levels are very low, it will take more time for creatine to restore your levels and for you to see results. This is why it is important to continue taking creatine if you want to maintain high creatine levels and see results. A loading dose of creatine is required: You do not have to take a loading dose of creatine to see the effects of the supplement. Research has shown that taking creatine with carbohydrates or protein may also help improve creatine levels in the body.