What it does
Citicoline is a supplement that may help improve brain function.
Commonly used for: memory issues, stroke recovery, cognitive decline
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:49:54 · updated 2026-07-26 11:40:30
About this medicine
Citicoline is a supplement that may help improve brain function.
What it treats
- memory issues
- stroke recovery
- cognitive decline
How it works
Citicoline works by supporting the brain's health and function, potentially enhancing memory and cognitive abilities.
Who it's for
Adults experiencing cognitive difficulties or recovering from a stroke.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: citocoline
Citicoline, also known as cytidine diphosphate choline, is a naturally occurring compound that is involved in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a crucial component of cell membranes. It is used as a neuroprotective agent and is believed to support cognitive function. Citicoline is often investigated for its potential benefits in conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Indications
- Cognitive impairment
- Stroke recovery
- Traumatic brain injury
- Alzheimer's disease
- Parkinson's disease
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific dosing guidelines from relevant clinical resources.
Adults: Refer to specific dosing guidelines from relevant clinical resources.
Mechanism of action
Citicoline is metabolized to both cytidine and choline. Choline is a precursor for the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is essential for memory and cognitive functions. Additionally, citicoline may enhance the production of phospholipids, which are vital for neuronal membrane integrity and repair. It also has neuroprotective properties that may help in mitigating damage from ischemia or trauma.
Pharmacodynamics
Citicoline has been shown to increase levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which can enhance synaptic plasticity and improve cognitive function. It may also promote neuronal repair processes, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidant effects. These actions contribute to its neuroprotective properties, which are beneficial in various neurological conditions.
Pharmacokinetics
Citicoline is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within one hour. It is rapidly metabolized in the liver, with its metabolites, choline and cytidine, being distributed to tissues including the brain. The elimination half-life of citicoline is approximately 3.5 hours. It is excreted primarily in the urine, both as unchanged drug and as metabolites.
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures.
- Patients with cardiovascular disease should be monitored closely.
Pregnancy
Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Safety during breastfeeding is not established. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Injectable solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.