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.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every CDP-Choline (Citicoline) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jarrow Formulas Citicoline (CDP Choline) | 96 A | $0.57 |
| 2 | Life Extension Citicoline CDP-Choline | 96 A | $0.42 |
| 3 | Nootropics Depot Cognizin Citicoline Capsules | 90 A | $0.45 |
| 4 | Onnit Alpha BRAIN Black Label (80 ct) | 87 A | $6.25 |
| 5 | Momentous Brain Drive | 86 A- | $1.50 |
| 6 | Vital Nutrients Citicoline 250mg | 86 A- | $1.60 |
| 7 | Integrative Therapeutics Neurologix | 84 A- | $1.35 |
| 8 | Nature's Way Clear Thinking | 84 A- | $0.72 |
| 9 | Integrative Therapeutics ProThrivers Wellness Brain | 83 A- | $1.07 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much CDP-Choline (Citicoline) should I take?
The typical range is 250-500 mg daily. Acute and cumulative effects
When should I take CDP-Choline (Citicoline)?
Morning. Optional.
Which form of CDP-Choline (Citicoline) is best?
Capsules — Cognizin brand studied. Other forms in the catalog: Powder.
Is CDP-Choline (Citicoline) safe?
Commonly reported: Headache, Insomnia, GI upset. Serious warnings: None. Safe
Which CDP-Choline (Citicoline) supplement scores highest?
Jarrow Formulas Citicoline (CDP Choline), at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
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
What systematic reviews concluded
Outcomes that systematic reviews of CDP-Choline (Citicoline) reached a verdict on: 3 with a benefit, 2 unclear. Each is quoted from a review and linked to it on PubMed. How these were read.
Reviews found a benefit (3)
“citicoline has been proven to be a useful compound in preventing dementia progression” PMID 33053828
“It also enhances cognitive functions among healthy individuals and improves prognosis after stroke” PMID 33053828
“Treatment with oral citicoline within the first 24 hours after onset in patients with moderate to severe stroke increases the probability of complete recovery at 3 months.” PMID 12468781 · 2 reviews
Not enough to say: cognitive function in mental disorders; brain trauma outcome.
2 findings from reviews in specific patient groups (such as cancer, pregnancy or surgery) are not shown here.
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.
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
Related in Nootropic
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.