CDP-Choline (cytidine 5' diphosphocholine)‚ also called Citicoline‚ is a form of the B vitamin choline‚ a neuroprotective intermediate compound that is essential in the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine‚ and phosphatidylcholine (a phospholipid that is a major constituent of cell membranes). Once absorbed into the body‚ CDP-Choline breaks down into cytidine and choline. Once these elements cross the blood-brain barrier‚ they reform into CDP-Choline‚ which goes on to stabilize cell membranes and increase the production of neurotransmitters. CDP-Choline's therapeutic reach is intriguing researchers worldwide as it shows promise of clinical efficacy in early stage Alzheimer's disease‚ Parkinson's disease‚ and in elderly patients with cognitive deficits.
