Probably better to cycle on and off. Your system gets time off from the added metabolite - plus the whole mental effect you can get by going back on Creatine vs having always been on it. You can get a naturally in your diet via lean meats - try not to overcook them or you can damage the Creatine...

But I believe a long term daily dose of 5-8 grams is safe for the average bodybuilder with a good amount of LBM. However Creatine supplementation is a relatively new concept and long term studies of any potential side effects don't exist - yet. But so far - it is very safe with no side effects when taken as directed (like anything).

I have heard many times you should reload every 30 days - but then of course there are contradictions on that saying you can develop larger muscular stores without loading. Personally I have stayed on it for many months before and I will take 2 servings per day (8-16 grams) for a few days every now and then... just to be sure I have full CP stores... in the end, you kinda have to do what works best for you... and what keeps you gaining...