Nootropic
CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
Also known as: Citicoline, Cytidine diphosphate-choline
Choline and cytidine donor supporting brain cell membranes and neurotransmitters. Well-studied for cognitive support.
Daily target & upper limit
550 mg / day · UL 3500 mgCDP-Choline (Citicoline) has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:
CDP-Choline (Citicoline) dosage reference →Primary uses
- Brain cell support
- Memory
- Focus
- Neuroprotection
How it works
- Provides choline and cytidine
- Supports phosphatidylcholine synthesis
- Enhances dopamine
Dosage
- Typical range
- 250-500 mg daily
- Timing
- Morning
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- Acute and cumulative effects
- Special populations
- Cognitive support, stroke recovery
Forms
- Capsules
- Powder
Safety
Common side effects
- Headache
- Insomnia
- GI upset
Contraindications
- None
Products containing CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list CDP-Choline (Citicoline) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
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Evidence notes
Well-researched cognitive support
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Cited research for CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention cdp-choline (citicoline). Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
- Alvarez-Sabin et al. (2013)Journal of the Neurological Sciences
Citicoline for acute ischemic stroke: long-term use for post-stroke cognitive function
- McGlade et al. (2012)Food and Nutrition Sciences
Improved attentional performance following citicoline administration in healthy adult women
- Okuda et al. (1973)Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
Distribution and metabolism of CDP-choline in rats
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