Does citicoline improve memory?

by: GSHWORLD time: 2024-10-18 classify: Product News

Citicoline, also known as cephalin or CDP-choline (cytidine-5'-diphosphocholine), is a naturally occurring compound in the human body that belongs to the class of nucleotides. It plays an important role in the structure and function of cell membranes and is a key component of cell membrane phospholipids. Citicoline plays a role in a variety of physiological processes, including the construction and repair of cell membranes, the synthesis of acetylcholine (acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter associated with memory and cognitive function), and cell signaling.

1. Mechanism of action of citicoline

The effects of citicoline are mainly related to its metabolism in the brain. It can increase the level of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which helps improve cognitive function. In addition, citicoline is involved in the maintenance and repair of cell membranes, helping to protect nerve cells from damage. It can also improve the metabolic level of the brain and increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which are related to brain functions such as attention, emotion and motor control. Citicoline also has an antioxidant effect, which helps slow down cell aging and functional decline.

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2. Can it improve memory?

Existing studies have given positive results on whether citicoline can improve memory. According to the literature provided, citicoline supplements have shown positive effects on memory function in multiple studies. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on healthy elderly people aged 50 to 85 years old. The results showed that participants who took citicoline had significant improvements in episodic memory (assessed by paired association test) and composite memory (calculated by scores of 4 memory tests) after 12 weeks. This suggests that citicoline may have a positive effect on memory loss due to aging.

In addition, the latest studies also mentioned that citicoline has a positive effect on cognitive function. When used in combination with anticholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) and/or memantine, this combination therapy was found to have a positive effect on patients with Alzheimer's disease and mixed dementia.

In summary, citicoline, as a supplement, may have a positive effect on improving memory and slowing cognitive decline, especially in the elderly population. However, it is important to note that despite the positive signs, the findings should be further validated in more extensive clinical trials and with higher standards of scientific evaluation. In addition, individuals may respond differently to citicoline, so a medical professional’s advice should be sought before starting any supplementation regimen.

References:

[1] Nakazaki E, Mah E, Sanoshy K, Citrolo D, Watanabe F. Citicoline and Memory Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Nutr. 2021 Aug 7;151(8):2153-2160. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxab119. PMID: 33978188; PMCID: PMC8349115.

[2] Bonvicini M, Travaglini S, Lelli D, Antonelli Incalzi R, Pedone C. Is Citicoline Effective in Preventing and Slowing Down Dementia? - A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023 Jan 12;15(2):386. doi: 10.3390/nu15020386. PMID: 36678257; PMCID: PMC9866349.

[3] Gareri P, Cotroneo AM, Montella R, Gaglianone M, Putignano S. Citicoline: A Cholinergic Precursor with a Pivotal Role in Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2024;100(2):725- 733. doi: 10.3233/JAD-240497. PMID: 38905051; PMCID: PMC11307077.

*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.

Tag: Citicoline