Meta Information
ID:citicoline
Name:Citicoline
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- CDP-Choline
- Cytidine Diphosphate-Choline
Active Compound
citicoline
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:novel_food
- jp:rx_drug
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Supports cognitive function, memory, and neuronal membrane integrity, potentially mitigating age-related cognitive decline.
Typical Protocol
- Typical daily doses range from 250 mg to 1000 mg, often split into two administrations.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
20
High Cost:
50
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Cost for a one-month supply of daily capsules; not covered by insurance.
Summary
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound that serves as a precursor to both choline and cytidine. It supports brain health by increasing the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a key component of neuronal cell membranes, and by boosting levels of crucial neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, potentially enhancing cognitive function and protecting against age-related neuronal damage.
Purpose
Supports brain cell membrane integrity and neurotransmitter production.
Card Summary
A nootropic compound that provides choline to support brain cell membranes and neurotransmitter synthesis, aiming to enhance cognitive function and memory.
Drug Class
nootropic
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
4.2
Justification:
Targeted benefit for cognitive health and neuronal integrity, but not a systemic aging driver.
Evidence
Grade:
B
Score:
6.5
Justification:
Human trials exist, but often focus on disease states; evidence for healthy aging is mixed.
Safety
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Excellent safety profile with rare, mild side effects; generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
Flags
- May cause mild digestive upset or headache in sensitive individuals.
- Individuals with trimethylaminuria (TMAU) should use choline sources with caution.
- Consult a physician if taking other cholinergic drugs or have a history of depression.
Verdict
A safe, targeted supplement for supporting cognitive function during aging.
Created
2026-05-05T21:58:30.909100Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)