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Skin disease often becomes the major manifestation in patients with dermatomyositis, after the muscle disease has been controlled. However, many patients may continue to experience weakness despite apparent control of their disease.
These authors performed a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 37 patients with stable dermatomyositis or polymyositis who were receiving chronic medical therapy and were clinically weak. The patients were randomized to receive 20 g of creatine supplements daily for 8 days, followed by 3 g daily for 6 months, or placebo. In addition, all patients were instructed in performing a home exercise program. The researchers measured strength by how long it took patients to perform four timed tasks, which assessed th…