Citicoline Monograph

Introduction Citicoline is a complex organic molecule that functions as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of cell membrane phospholipids. Citicoline is also known as CDP-choline and cytidine diphosphate choline (cytidine 5’-diphosphocholine). CDP-choline belongs to the group of biomolecules in living systems known as “nucleotides” that play important roles in cellular metabolism. CDP-choline is composed of ribose, pyrophosphate, cytosine (a nitrogenous base), and choline.1 Exogenous citicoline research in animal experiments and human clinical trials provides evidence of its cholinergic and neuroprotective actions. As a dietary supplement, citicoline appears useful for improving both the structural integrity and functionality of the neuronal membrane that may assist in membrane repair. Animal and clinical studies indicate the potential of citicoline to improve cognitive deficits, stroke rehabilitation, brain and spinal cord injuries, neurological diseases, and eye conditions.