Citicoline, or CDP-Choline, also known as cytidine 5 diphosphocholine, is a brain chemical that occurs naturally in the human body. Known for its neuroprotective effects, citicoline is a common ingredient in brain-health supplements. It has even been used by doctors to treat neurological diseases such as stroke, dementia, and brain injury, as well as cognitive impairment, traumatic brain injuries, age-related memory loss, Parkinson’s disease, and ADHD. Citicoline has historically been used as a prescription drug in several countries.

This article offers a comprehensive view of citicoline and why it is more effective than choline at improving cognitive function(1).

What is the Difference Between Citicoline and Choline?

Citicoline and choline are similar compounds. However, choline is not as effective at raising brain levels as citicoline.

That’s because choline cannot readily cross the blood-brain barrier, something that is incredibly easy for citicoline to do.

Introduction to Citicoline

Citicoline, also known as cytidine diphosphate choline (CDP-choline), is a naturally occurring compound found in the human body that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy cell membranes, especially in the brain. As a dietary supplement, citicoline has gained popularity for its potential to support brain health and enhance cognitive function. Research from clinical trials has shown that citicoline supplementation may offer benefits for individuals with mild vascular cognitive impairment, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological diseases. The neuroprotective effects of citicoline are believed to stem from its ability to boost the levels of key neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and dopamine, while also reducing oxidative stress. By supporting the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine—a major component of cell membranes—citicoline helps maintain the structural integrity and function of brain cells, making it a promising option for those looking to support cognitive health and address cognitive impairment.

How Does Citicoline Cross the Blood-Brain Barrier?

When you ingest citicoline, it is broken down (hydrolyzed) into cytidine and choline.

Cytidine is then converted into uridine, a compound crucial for brain health.

Then they enter the human brain as two separate compounds, where these metabolic processes are essential for maintaining optimal brain function.

Once inside your brain cells, they merge to re-form citicoline, thus increasing choline levels within the brain. (2, 3)

What Is Citicoline Used For?

Citicoline uses vary, but most people take it to improve brain health, which is why it’s the main ingredient in many brain-boosting supplements. Specifically, citicoline has been used to treat the following conditions:

• Stroke

• Vascular dementia

• Age-related cognitive decline

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Memory disorders

• Glaucoma

• Optic neuropathy

• Lazy eye

• Bipolar disorder

• Depression

Clinical studies have evaluated the effect of citicoline on cognitive deficits and chronic cerebral disorders, showing its potential benefits in these areas.

The scientific research supporting citicoline’s therapeutic use for most of the above conditions is mixed. However, several studies strongly suggest that it may improve stroke symptoms. Citicoline has also been studied for its benefits in patients with cerebrovascular disorders and stroke and cognitive dysfunction.

According to one study on stroke patients, researchers concluded:

“Citicoline is the only drug that in a number of different clinical stroke trials continuously had some neuroprotective benefit.” (4)

In stroke treatment, citicoline is sometimes used as an adjuvant therapy alongside standard treatments to enhance recovery outcomes.

Does Citicoline Actually Work?

Yes, citicoline does work, according to numerous clinical trials. Studies suggest it works for brain function and mental health by increasing phosphatidylcholine, a choline phosphate, in the brain. Citicoline also helps create acetylcholine, a MAJOR neurotransmitter essential for speech, memory, information processing, focus, and emotion regulation. Citicoline plays a role in supporting memory function, and is involved in supporting memory through its effects on brain metabolites and cholinergic pathways.

Therefore, citicoline may help treat stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia, and general cognitive dysfunction. It also supports cell-membrane signaling, which is crucial for brain cell communication, and supports the central nervous system by enhancing neural communication.

Is Citicoline Safe to Use?

YES! Citicoline is not only safe to use but has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on numerous health conditions, especially those affecting the brain. Like other dietary supplements, citicoline is not regulated as strictly as prescription medications, so users should be aware of this distinction.

Ways to Keep the Brain Healthy Explanatory Text

Keep your Brain Healthy.

Bad habits: not sleeping enough, being sedentary, not getting enough sunlight, skipping breakfast, eating sugary foods, over-eating, eating too much salt, smoking and drinking alcohol, lack of socializing and talking rarely, chronic stress, lack of stimulating thoughts, not resting when you are sick, head covered when sleeping, living in a polluted environment, listening to music with headphones.

Good habits: getting plenty of sleep, staying active and exercising, getting enough sunlight, eating healthy and not skipping meals, cutting down on sugar, staying hydrated, eating foods that improve brain health, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, staying socially engaged, managing stress, keeping your mind stimulated, taking power naps, taking care of your mental health, focusing on important tasks, practicing yoga and meditation.

Neuroprotective Effects of Citicoline

The neuroprotective effects of citicoline have been widely documented in clinical trials, highlighting its potential to improve cognitive function and slow cognitive decline. Citicoline supplementation has shown promise in supporting individuals with mild cognitive impairment, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, citicoline treatment led to significant improvement in cognitive function among participants with age-associated memory impairment. These cognitive benefits are thought to result from citicoline’s ability to enhance the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a crucial building block of neuronal membranes. Advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance spectroscopy, have demonstrated that citicoline supplementation increases the levels of high-energy phosphates in the brain, indicating improved energy metabolism and neuronal health. Overall, the effects of citicoline on cognitive function and its neuroprotective properties make it a valuable option for those seeking to support memory, attention, and overall brain health.

What Are the Health Benefits of Citicoline for Traumatic Brain Injury?

Many clinical research studies show a variety of positive health benefits from taking citicoline. Clinical data from various studies and clinical reviews support the neuroprotective effect of citicoline in neurological conditions, including its role in protecting neuronal structures and improving recovery. Let’s start with the most common health effects – the brain.

Stroke

Doctors in Japan were the first to investigate the medical usage of citicoline for stroke. When they used it on ACUTE stroke patients, they were stunned at the positive cognitive results they witnessed.

The health stroke scale is often used to assess neurological deficits and monitor recovery in stroke patients treated with citicoline.

For example, they discovered that administering citicoline to patients within 24 hours of a stroke significantly increased the likelihood of full recovery within three months. Studies have reported statistically significant improvement in functional outcomes. (5)

Subsequent studies have supported this benefit of citicoline. Citicoline has also been evaluated in patients with acute ischaemic stroke, showing clinical improvement in stroke patients receiving citicoline.

Vascular Dementia

Impaired blood flow to the brain, as occurs in stroke, is a common cause of dementia.

Vascular dementia is a type of cerebral disorder, and numerous studies show that citicoline treatment “enhances neurological and functional recovery,” including vascular dementia. (6, 7) Citicoline has shown benefits in managing various cerebral disorders.

Memory Disorders

A body of research shows that citicoline may also effectively treat memory disorders. (8) Clinical research suggests that citicoline can improve memory and lead to improved memory performance in both healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairment.

Glaucoma

In glaucoma, increased eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness if left untreated. Incredibly, research suggests that citicoline may help.

For example, two clinical trials suggest that oral citicoline can repair nerve damage in the eyes, slowing glaucoma progression. (9, 10) Clinical studies have also shown that citicoline can enhance visual function in patients with glaucoma.

Optic Neuropathy

Caused by damage to the optic nerve, optic neuropathy can be disabling. Citicoline to the rescue!

Researchers found that citicoline repaired optic nerve damage and improved vision in one clinical trial. (11) In this study, the citicoline group showed greater improvements in vision compared to the control group.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Those with amblyopia are plagued by a blurry vision in one eye caused by a lack of communication between the brain and the eye.  It is typically treated by wearing a patch over the good eye, strengthening the “lazy” one.

Studies have shown that oral citicoline supplementation with citicoline can boost the effects of this treatment in children (12, 13). Clinical trials investigating citicoline dosing for amblyopia in children have typically used daily oral doses ranging from 250 mg to 500 mg for periods of several months, highlighting the importance of dosing regimens in achieving therapeutic benefits.

There are numerous other health benefits of citicoline covered in separate sections below.

Does Citicoline Increase Dopamine?

Yes, citicoline increases dopamine. Research shows that citicoline can boost dopamine levels and other neurotransmitters, which in turn can brighten your mood. (14) Changes in plasma choline levels are associated with alterations in neurotransmitter synthesis and brain function.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals between brain cells. It is a “feel-good” chemical and is crucial in mood regulation.

Does Citicoline Improve Mood?

Yes! Due to its ability to increase dopamine and acetylcholine levels, citicoline may improve mood. Additionally, citicoline has been studied for its potential analgesic and antidepressant effects in neurological conditions, supporting its role in mood enhancement and neurological recovery.

Does Citicoline Help with ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition marked by inattention, poor memory, brain fog, and impulsivity. ADHD is also characterized by cognitive deficits, which citicoline may help address. And yes, studies suggest that oral citicoline treatment may help reduce symptoms of ADHD.

In a 2019 study published in theJournal of Attention Disorders, researchers found that adolescent males with ADHD showed improved attention and reduced impulsivity when given 250 to 500 mg of citicoline for 28 days. (15)

Does Citicoline Help With Depression?

There is little research on the possible effects of citicoline on depression. However, there is some scientific evidence that citicoline in combination with the antidepressant drug citalopram enhances the effectiveness of this drug. (16) Randomized controlled trials are needed to better understand citicoline's effects on mood and depression.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

While citicoline supplementation is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions and precautions. Citicoline may interact with certain medications, such as levodopa, which is commonly used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, individuals with underlying medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, should exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before starting citicoline supplements. As with any dietary supplement, it is essential to discuss citicoline supplementation with a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking other medications or have pre-existing health concerns. Further research is needed to fully understand all possible interactions and long-term safety considerations associated with citicoline use.

What are the 9 Citicoline Side Effects? 

• Back pain

• Blurred vision

• Confusion

• Constipation

• Headache

• Irritability

• Muscle cramps

• Nausea

• Stomach pain

However, most users do not experience any adverse reactions from taking citicoline. Clinical trials have not found a significant difference in adverse event rates between citicoline and placebo groups. Studies suggest that citicoline may be safe to use for up to 12 weeks, which is the length of their clinical research trials (17).

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms while taking citicoline.

How Much Citicoline Supplementation Should I Take

The therapeutic dosage is 500 to 2000 milligrams of citicoline daily for most people. (20)

Citicoline therapy should be tailored to individual needs and medical conditions, as determined by a healthcare professional.

If you want to use it to treat ischemic stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, ischemic brain injury, cerebral ischemia, traumatic brain injury, acute ischemic stroke, mild vascular cognitive impairment, glaucoma, or other severe cognitive or visual condition, please consult your healthcare provider.

What Foods Contain Citicoline?

There are no foods that contain citicoline. Instead, if you want to boost your citicoline levels -- and your brainpower -- you'll want to consume foods that contain choline

Rich food sources of choline include:

• Eggs

• Chicken

• Beef liver 

• Beef

• Shrimp

• Tuna

• Yogurt

• Brussel Sprouts

• Kidney beans

But the best way to get enough citicoline is to take it in supplement form.

How Do I Take Citicoline?

You can take citicoline orally, intravenously, or via injection. (The latter two are usually administered by a healthcare professional.)

There is a wide variety of citicoline oral supplements available over the counter.

They come in the form of capsules, powder, gummies capsule, powder, including:

• Capsules

• Powders

• Gummies

• And more

The label may say citicoline or CDP choline, but if it doesn't, look at the ingredient list of any brain health supplement, and you'll likely find it there. 

What is the Best Form of Citicoline To Take?

The best form of citicoline to take is Citicoline Sodium.

Why?

Clinical trials, including randomized double-blind studies, show that it may:

• Improve overall memory when taken for 12 weeks in those with age-related memory impairment  (21)

• Increase motor speed in adolescent males (22)

• Improve attention in adult females (23)

• Significantly increase brain energy in healthy adults (24)

What is the Best Brand of Citicoline to Take?

The best brand of citicoline to take is SANE Vitaae™!

Vitaae™ contains Citicoline Sodium. We covered some of this information earlier, but to review…

In double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials (aka the most potent form of clinical trials available and the exact kind used to prove the effects of prescription medications), citicoline showed a 3.6% increase in brain energy utilization and an almost 70% decrease in errors of omission, also known as “memory errors.” (25) In these studies, the citicoline group compared to placebo demonstrated significant differences in cognitive outcomes, further supporting the effectiveness of citicoline.

And though incredible, citicoline isn’t the only effective natural ingredient in this brain-boosting clinical research formulation.

Vitaae™ also contains optimal levels of:

Bioavailable folate: Folic acid is essential for brain development and function, yet most lack the enzyme needed to absorb it.

Numerous research studies show that folate affects mood and cognitive performance, especially in older people, and that folate deficiency may contribute to cognitive dysfunction! (26, 27)

Vitaae™ contains the specific patented form of folate clinically proven to be up to 7 times more bioavailable than the folate supplements found on store shelves. (28)

L-Carnitine and Acetyl- L-Carnitine: Both of these natural chemicals can improve mood, cognition, and learning – and promotes fat burning and weight loss!

CoQ10: Often called the “universal antioxidant,” CoQ10 exists in your mitochondria… the tiny energy centers in your cells. Among other things, CoQ10 sparks energy production in every cell of your body, especially the brain!. Talk about powering the brain!!!

Shortly after you start taking Vitaae™, you will be surprised and delighted by the improved mental clarity, deeper concentration, better moods, and improved weight loss you’ll experience.

So, get ready to reclaim your youthful energy and sharp mind from the inside out with new, patented, and clinically proven ingredients that have never been put together into a single, easy to take formula before.

But don’t take our word for it. Here is a sampling of what real Vitaae™ fans have emailed us:

Real Customer Five-Star Reviews

At 62, Vitaae™ is the one thing that has really helped me to have a better attitude, a better outlook, and a sharper mind.

I feel like I have more energy and have lost 5 pounds already, as I am definitely more active. I have been so disappointed with the mental focus products out there because none have worked until trying Vitaae.™

I was a nurse for 30 years. So I pay a lot of attention to what I put into my body, and I am always hesitant about supplements. But I have to say, after doing my own in-depth research on the formulation, the ingredients, especially the well-studied patented versions, are really top-notch. 

I have been taking this as well as my husband, and we notice a big difference in our moods and ability to focus. Also, as someone who is well aware of how important proper folate levels are and how hard it is to absorb, I'm impressed by the 7 times improved absorption of this formula.

I just love this! I have beentaking it for 2 months now, and my brain fog is nearly gone, I have more energy, I exercise more, and I feel very vibrant all over, not just mentally.

I always felt so tired because I never felt like I got enough sleep, but I have been sleeping much better and feel refreshed when I wake up. My memory is much sharper, and I don't feel as forgetful as before. And I am down 7 pounds, so that is a bonus :)

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6683073/

2- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24504829/

3- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15005642/

4- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24739589/

5- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/01.str.0000038691.03334.71

6-https://www.balafive.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Citicholine-neurportection-growth-2008-review.pdf

7- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/strokeaha.109.567404

8- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2695184/

9- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18929133/

For reviews and information about supplements and their ingredients, visit the SANEStore Supplement & Ingredients Reviews page.

10- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23615390/

11- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18325025/

12- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17638004/

13- https://europepmc.org/article/MED/9550353

14- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2695184/

15- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26179181/

16- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30107190/

17- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1090/citicoline

18- https://cognizin.com/en/cognizin-citicoline-infographic

19- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18816480/

20- https://www.lybrate.com/medicine/citicoline

21-https://cognizin.com/en/studies/cognizin-citicoline-improves-overall-memory-and-episodic-memory-in-healthy-older-adults

22-https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1087054715593633?journalCode=jada#abstract

23-https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1087054715593633?journalCode=jada#abstract

24-https://cognizin.com/en/studies/cognizin-citicoline-increases-brain-energy-atp-by-14-and-speeds-up-formation-of-brain-membranes-by-26-in-healthy-adults

25- https://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=19921

26- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1123448/

27- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1123448/

28- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14769778/