Whey, creatine, pre-workouts, electrolytes — the sports aisle promises a lot. Here's what a pharmacist would actually tell you about each, including the counterfeit problem nobody mentions.
Protein, demystified
Whey absorbs fast and suits post-workout use; casein digests slowly and works well at night; plant blends (pea + rice) suit vegetarians and vegans. What matters most is your total daily protein — roughly 1.6–2g per kg of body weight for regular training — counting food first. The "anabolic window" is far less critical than consistency.
Creatine: the best-studied supplement in sport
Creatine monohydrate has decades of research behind it for strength and power. Three to five grams daily, any time of day, no loading phase required. Drink enough water, and skip it only if your doctor has flagged kidney concerns.
Counterfeits are a real problem in India
Fake whey with cheap fillers is common through unofficial channels. Protect yourself: buy sealed products with an intact importer label, a verifiable batch number and a printed bill — exactly what a licensed pharmacy provides. If a price looks too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
Pharmacist's tip
Ask us to check the importer and batch details before you open a tub. Genuine brands also offer QR-code or SMS verification — use it every time.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medicines or managing a health condition.