How much should I take per day?

A standard maintenance dose is about 5 g daily, taken any time of day. Some people load with around 20 g split into four doses for a week, but 5 g daily works without loading.

Does it need to be taken after workouts?

Timing matters less than consistency. Total daily intake is what drives muscle creatine levels, so take it whenever you will remember.

Yes. It is synthetic creatine monohydrate with no animal-derived ingredients, so it fits a vegan diet.

How does it compare with creatine HCl or kre-alkalyn?

Creatine monohydrate is the most studied form and is generally as effective as the newer variants. HCl and kre-alkalyn cost more without proven extra benefit.

Can I mix it with protein powder or juice?

Yes. It dissolves reasonably in water, juice or a protein shake. Avoid very hot liquids, which can degrade it.

Does it cause bloating or water retention?

Creatine pulls water into muscle cells, so some people gain a little weight from water. That is normal and usually not the puffiness some report with loading.