Citicoline (Cognizin): Nootropic Benefits & Uses

Citicoline, also known as CDP-Choline, functions as an essential intermediate in the synthesis of phospholipids and cell membrane components. Citicoline supplementation increases levels of vital neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and dopamine, supporting cognitive function, learning, and memory formation.

Cognizin, a patented form of citicoline, features a unique crystalline structure with 10-12% water content that provides superior stability and resistance to humidity degradation compared to generic citicoline. This brain nutrient enhances neural communication, protects brain structures, and supports overall cognitive performance through its role as a phosphatidylcholine precursor.

Clinical studies demonstrate citicoline’s effectiveness for improving memory, attention, and focus while offering neuroprotective benefits for conditions ranging from age-related cognitive decline to stroke recovery and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

Let’s take a closer look at what Cognizin can do for you.

Citicoline in Summary

Citicoline is a precursor in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine (PC). It is a powerful and effective nootropic with a wide variety of potential benefits for cognitive function, brain health, and overall well-being. It may also help to protect the brain from age-related damage and improve recovery from stroke or other forms of brain injury. Studies show that citicoline is safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects in the subjects.

If you are looking for a nootropic to help improve your cognitive performance, Citicoline is definitely worth considering.

Pros:

• Improves learning, memory, and the ability to process information
• Helps people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease
• Helps with recovery in stroke patients

Cons:

• Citicoline provides less choline per serving compared to Alpha-GPC

What Is Citicoline?

Citicoline, also known as cytidine diphosphate-choline (CDP-Choline), is an essential intermediate in synthesizing phospholipids, which are major structural components of cell membranes.⁽¹⁾ It’s important to note that CDP-Choline and citicoline are exactly the same compound – the terms are used interchangeably in scientific literature and supplement marketing. When you see products labeled as “CDP-Choline,” they contain the same active ingredient as those labeled “citicoline.”

Evidence shows that citicoline supplementation increases levels of brain chemical messengers involved in learning and memory (such as acetylcholine and dopamine), which help to support cognitive function.⁽²⁾

Citicoline also helps protect brain cells from damage, and cognitive impairment, by increasing levels of a substance called cerebroside, a major component of the myelin sheath that insulates nerve cells.⁽³⁾

In addition, citicoline supplementation has been shown to increase cerebral blood flow to the brain which is useful in the treatment of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, and vascular dementia.⁽⁴⁾

Cognizin is a patented, branded form of citicoline that contains 10-12% water by weight, which creates a stable crystalline structure resistant to humidity degradation. Cognizin functions as a brain nutrient that supports neural communication, protects brain structures, and enhances overall cognitive function through its role as a phosphatidylcholine precursor.

Cognizin was designed to help you stay focused and engaged and boost brain power all in one easy dietary supplement. Tested for efficiency, Cognizin is a brand of citicoline which enhances communication between neurons, protects neural structures, and supports overall brain health and energy.

It provides vital nutrients to help the brain generate electrical impulses and care for healthy brain cells. It also helps to maintain normal levels of acetylcholine which regulates cognitive function, and it also supports the healthy mitochondria activity, which is required for mental alertness.

The development and use of the branded supplement have improved how people can optimize their focus levels.

Cognizin vs Generic Citicoline: What’s the Difference?

Cognizin is a highly crystalline form of citicoline which ranges from 10% to 12% water by weight. Conventional citicoline is no more than 5% water by weight and is therefore highly susceptible to humidity, unlike Cognizin.

Cognizin differs from generic citicoline through its patented fermentation process that ensures exceptional purity and consistency, although both contain the same active compound (CDP-choline). Cognizin’s superior stability comes from its higher water content (10-12% versus 5% in generic citicoline), which creates a crystalline structure that maintains potency even in humid environments, unlike standard citicoline products.

Superior Stability: Cognizin’s higher water content (10-12% vs 5% for generic citicoline) creates a more stable crystalline structure that resists degradation in humid environments, ensuring consistent potency over time.

Manufacturing Standards: Cognizin is produced under Kyowa Hakko’s patented fermentation process that ensures exceptional purity and consistency. This proprietary process eliminates common impurities found in generic citicoline products.

Clinical Validation: While generic citicoline has been studied broadly, Cognizin specifically has been the subject of multiple human clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy for cognitive enhancement, focus, and attention.

Bioavailability: The unique structure of Cognizin may contribute to better absorption and utilization in the body compared to generic citicoline, though both forms are generally well-absorbed.

Allergen-Free Formulation: Cognizin is vegetarian, allergen-free, and contains no artificial preservatives, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

For those seeking the most reliable and clinically-validated form of citicoline, Cognizin provides advantages over generic alternatives through its enhanced stability, purity, and consistent manufacturing standards.

How Does Citicoline (Cognizin) Work In The Brain?

Cognizin works in the brain by increasing levels of two critical neurotransmitters, acetylcholine and dopamine, which support memory formation and focus. Cognizin also enhances neural membrane integrity through phospholipid synthesis, improves cerebral blood flow, and protects neurons from oxidative damage, creating comprehensive support for brain function and cognitive performance.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in memory, learning, and other cognitive processes. Citicoline supplementation increases levels of acetylcholine by inhibiting its breakdown.⁽⁵⁾

According to one study published in 2014, Citicoline was shown to increase norepinephrine in the cerebral cortex and hypothalamus as well as dopamine in the corpus striatum.⁽⁶⁾

This mechanism of action is important because it suggests that citicoline could be effective in the treatment of conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and addiction.

In terms of nootropic benefits, citicoline has been shown to improve attention span, task flexibility, working memory, and verbal learning.⁽⁷⁾

When you take the branded supplement Cognizin, you can trust that you’re getting an optimal dose of citicoline to maximize the nootropic benefits discussed above.

What Is Citicoline (Cognizin) Used For?

Cognizin helps treat several neurological and cognitive conditions through its neuroprotective and neurogenerative properties. Cognizin shows particular effectiveness for age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, attention disorders, ischemic stroke recovery, glaucoma and vision problems, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, where it supports both symptom management and underlying brain health. Citicoline is used for a variety of purposes, both cognitive and non-cognitive. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common uses of Citicoline below:

Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked. One study from 2009 showed that Citicoline supplementation improved neurological, functional and global outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke without significant safety concerns.⁽⁸⁾

Vision

Citicoline has also been shown to be effective in treating age-related vision loss, particularly glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerve is damaged, typically as a result of high intraocular pressure.

A recent study from 2021 showed that citicoline supplementation was a valuable addition to conventional treatment of Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).⁽⁹⁾

Neuroprotective Effects

Citicoline has neuroprotective effects and has been shown to be effective in treating certain neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease.

A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial from 2021 showed that Citicoline (Cognizin) supplementation had beneficial effects on memory function and behavior in populations with a wide range of impairments.⁽¹⁰⁾

Neuronal Membrane Repair

Citicoline also has the ability to repair neuronal membranes. A recent study from 2015 showed that Citicoline supplementation could help improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease by repairing neuronal membranes.⁽¹¹⁾

Angiogenesis 

Citicoline has also been shown to improve the survival of vascular endothelial cells and promote angiogenesis.⁽¹²⁾ Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels are formed. This can lead to improved blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, which can be beneficial for cognitive function.

Glutamate Transport

Citicoline has also been shown to be beneficial in various CNS injury models by upregulating glutamate transport.⁽¹³⁾

When the brain is injured, there is an increase in glutamate levels which can lead to further damage. Citicoline has been shown to help reduce glutamate levels and improve outcomes in various CNS injury models.

Cognizin Ingredients and Formulation

Cognizin is a proprietary form of citicoline with a specific formulation designed for optimal bioavailability and effectiveness. Understanding its ingredients helps explain why it’s considered a premium form of citicoline.

Active Ingredient:

• Cytidine 5′-diphosphocholine (CDP-Choline) – The primary active ingredient that provides all the cognitive benefits discussed throughout this article.

Structural Composition:

• 10-12% water by weight – This higher water content (compared to 5% in generic citicoline) creates a more stable crystalline structure.
• Sodium salt form – Cognizin is typically provided as citicoline sodium, which enhances solubility and absorption.

Additional Components in Commercial Cognizin Products:
Depending on the specific supplement brand, Cognizin supplements may contain various inactive ingredients such as:

• Vegetable cellulose (capsule)
• Microcrystalline cellulose (filler)
• Silicon dioxide (anti-caking agent)
• Magnesium stearate (flow agent)

Dietary Considerations:

• Vegetarian-friendly
• Gluten-free
• Non-GMO
• Free from common allergens including soy, dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and wheat
• Contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Cognizin supplements are available in various dosages, typically 250mg or 500mg per serving, allowing users to adjust their intake based on their specific cognitive enhancement goals. The pure, well-defined composition of Cognizin contributes to its consistent effectiveness and minimal side effect profile compared to less refined citicoline products.

What Are The Benefits Of Citicoline (Cognizin) For Cognition?

The benefits of using Citicoline (Cognizin) for cognition are numerous. Citicoline has been shown to improve cognitive function in healthy adults and those with cognitive impairments.

Citicoline has also been shown to be effective in treating certain neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Citicoline also has neuroprotective effects and can help to repair neuronal membranes.

In addition, Citicoline has been shown to improve the survival of vascular endothelial cells and promote angiogenesis.

Benefits of Citicoline (Cognizin) For Cognition:

• Helps to improve cognitive function in healthy adults and those with cognitive impairments
• Can help to treat certain neurodegenerative disorders
• Neuroprotective effects
• Can help to repair neuronal membranes
• Improves the survival of vascular endothelial cells and promotes angiogenesis
• A great supplementation for general cognitive enhancement

Where To Buy Citicoline (Cognizin) Online?

Cognizin can be purchased from Amazon, which offers multiple brands containing this patented form of citicoline at competitive prices with reliable shipping options. Cognizin is also available through specialty nootropic retailers, health supplement stores, and the official Cognizin website, where consumers can find various formulations and dosage options to suit their specific needs.

You can buy Citicoline (Cognizin) here.

CDP-Choline Benefits: Understanding the Science

As mentioned earlier, CDP-Choline is simply another name for citicoline. The benefits of CDP-Choline are identical to those of citicoline, but it’s worth exploring the specific research conducted under this terminology.

Key CDP-Choline Benefits:

Enhanced Acetylcholine Production: CDP-Choline serves as a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory formation, learning, and cognitive processing. Research shows that CDP-Choline supplementation increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, directly improving cognitive function.

Improved Neural Membrane Integrity: Studies examining CDP-Choline demonstrate its ability to enhance the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major component of cell membranes. This helps maintain and restore the structural integrity of neurons, particularly important for aging brains.

Neuroprotective Properties: CDP-Choline has been shown to protect neurons from oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. This neuroprotective effect makes it valuable for both healthy individuals seeking cognitive preservation and those with neurological conditions.

Enhanced Brain Energy Metabolism: Research on CDP-Choline reveals its ability to improve cerebral glucose metabolism and increase ATP production in the brain. This enhanced energy utilization translates to better cognitive performance and mental endurance.

Support for Neurotransmitter Balance: Beyond acetylcholine, CDP-Choline helps regulate other important neurotransmitters including dopamine and norepinephrine, contributing to improved focus, attention, and mood regulation.

Age-Related Cognitive Decline Prevention: Multiple studies using CDP-Choline have demonstrated its effectiveness in slowing age-related cognitive decline and improving memory in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

The research on CDP-Choline provides strong scientific support for citicoline’s cognitive enhancement properties, making it one of the most well-studied and effective nootropic compounds available today.

What Do People Say About Citicoline (Cognizin) On Reddit?

Here are some references and reviews of Citicoline from users and contributors on Reddit.

According to ‘okatjapanese’:

‘Have used it for several months and I definitely notice improved cognition. I remember things easier and can put together concepts to make quick decisions. It’s all quite great.’

According to ‘Got4ofem’:

‘I took a 2.4 Gram dosage [of citicoline], along with 2.85Grams of Piracetam and 2.8 Grams of Sulbutiamine, and I have to say… I WAS ON FIRE ALL DAY LONG. I mean, wow, how do I explain it… I was really REALLY REALLY REALLY sharp all day long.’

According to ‘aeramor’:

‘Like others, I’ve been taking the Jarrow Formulas Citicoline. 120tabs are reasonably priced and come in 250mg. So far it’s my fav choline source (above Alpha GPC which I felt like I still needed to take more of to get the same effect)’

How Do You Take Citicoline (Cognizin) For Cognitive Enhancement?

You can take Citicoline (Cognizin) with or without food. Most people split their dosage into two doses per day and take one early in the day and one later in the day. It’s recommended to take Citicoline (Cognizin) daily for best results. There is no need to cycle Citicoline (Cognizin).

That being said, some people prefer to cycle their nootropics. This means that they take them for a certain period (usually 4-8 weeks) and then take a break for a similar period to prevent tolerance.

What Is The Recommended Dosage For Citicoline (Cognizin)?

The recommended dosage for Cognizin ranges from 250-500mg daily for cognitive enhancement, based on clinical trial evidence showing optimal effectiveness and safety at these levels. Cognizin can be taken as a single daily dose or split into two administrations for sustained benefits, with higher dosages of 500-2000mg reserved for addressing serious cognitive decline under professional guidance.⁽¹⁴⁾

A higher Citicoline dosage of around 500-2000 mg is recommended for serious cases of cognitive decline.

What Are The Side Effects Of Citicoline (Cognizin)?

Cognizin has been extensively clinically tested with research showing minimal side effects, making it well-tolerated by most users. Potential side effects of Cognizin, though rare, may include mild headaches, temporary insomnia, occasional restlessness, and minor gastrointestinal discomfort, which typically resolve as the body adjusts to supplementation.

The most common side effects reported with Citicoline (Cognizin) are:

• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Gastrointestinal Ailments

What Nootropics Are Similar To Citicoline (Cognizin)?

Nootropics similar to Citicoline (Cognizin) include:

Alpha GPC – Alpha GPC is a choline-containing compound that is structurally similar to citicoline. Both nootropics are effective at boosting cognitive function and memory. However, citicoline is more well-rounded and has additional benefits for the brain, such as reducing cognitive decline and improving brain health.

Centrophenoxine – Centrophenoxine is another choline-containing compound that is often compared to citicoline. Both nootropics are effective at boosting cognitive function, memory, and focus. However, centrophenoxine is more potent and has been shown to be more effective at reducing cognitive decline.

What Brain Supplements Can Citicoline (Cognizin) Be Stacked With?

Cognizin can be effectively stacked with other nootropics to create synergistic cognitive enhancement effects beyond what each compound provides individually. Cognizin pairs exceptionally well with racetams (Piracetam, Aniracetam, Oxiracetam), which utilize the additional choline Cognizin provides, and complements other cholinergics like Alpha GPC, adaptogens, and natural cognitive enhancers like Bacopa Monnieri.

If you’re looking for a nootropic blend that contains a potent choline source, vitamins, and other effective nootropics, we recommend NooCube. NooCube is a potent cognitive enhancer with different nootropic ingredients that all work together to boost cognitive function, memory, and focus.

Plus, NooCube contains Alpha GPC, which is a choline-containing compound that works well with Citicoline to enhance its effects. This is an all-in-one nootropic supplement that will help you reach your cognitive potential.

You can find NooCube right here:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding Citicoline (Cognizin).

Conclusion

Citicoline (Cognizin) is a potent and well-rounded nootropic supplement that can help boost cognitive function, memory, focus, and brain health. It’s one of the most effective nootropics on the market and has few side effects.

It works by increasing levels of acetylcholine (ACh), which is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in cognitive function. Citicoline (Cognizin) also helps to protect the brain from damage and improve brain health.

If you’re looking for a nootropic that can help you reach your cognitive potential, we recommend Citicoline (Cognizin). It’s a safe and effective nootropic that can help you achieve your cognitive goals.

1. Adibhatla, R M et al. “Effects of citicoline on phospholipid and glutathione levels in transient cerebral ischemia.” Stroke vol. 32,10 (2001): 2376-81. doi:10.1161/hs1001.096010↩
2. Synoradzki, Kamil, and Paweł Grieb. “Citicoline: A Superior Form of Choline?.” Nutrients vol. 11,7 1569. 12 Jul. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11071569↩
3. Gareri, Pietro et al. “The role of citicoline in cognitive impairment: pharmacological characteristics, possible advantages, and doubts for an old drug with new perspectives.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 10 1421-9. 3 Sep. 2015, doi:10.2147/CIA.S87886↩
4. Alvarez, X A et al. “Double-blind placebo-controlled study with citicoline in APOE genotyped Alzheimer’s disease patients. Effects on cognitive performance, brain bioelectrical activity and cerebral perfusion.” Methods and findings in experimental and clinical pharmacology vol. 21,9 (1999): 633-44.↩
5. Jasielski, Patryk et al. “Application of Citicoline in Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review.” Nutrients vol. 12,10 3113. 12 Oct. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12103113↩
6. Wignall, Nicholas D, and E Sherwood Brown. “Citicoline in addictive disorders: a review of the literature.” The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse vol. 40,4 (2014): 262-8. doi:10.3109/00952990.2014.925467↩
7. Spiers, P A et al. “Citicoline improves verbal memory in aging.” Archives of neurology vol. 53,5 (1996): 441-8. doi:10.1001/archneur.1996.00550050071026↩
8. Cho, H-J, and Y J Kim. “Efficacy and safety of oral citicoline in acute ischemic stroke: drug surveillance study in 4,191 cases.” Methods and findings in experimental and clinical pharmacology vol. 31,3 (2009): 171-6. doi:10.1358/mf.2009.31.3.1364241↩
9. Jünemann, Anselm G M et al. “Bedeutung von Citicolin bei der Glaukomerkrankung” [The role of citicoline in glaucoma]. Der Ophthalmologe : Zeitschrift der Deutschen Ophthalmologischen Gesellschaft vol. 118,5 (2021): 439-448. doi:10.1007/s00347-021-01362-z↩
10. Nakazaki, Eri et al. “Citicoline and Memory Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.” The Journal of nutrition vol. 151,8 (2021): 2153-2160. doi:10.1093/jn/nxab119↩
11. Alvarez-Sabín, José, and Gustavo C Román. “The role of citicoline in neuroprotection and neurorepair in ischemic stroke.” Brain sciences vol. 3,3 1395-414. 23 Sep. 2013, doi:10.3390/brainsci3031395↩
12. Krupinski, Jerzy et al. “Citicoline induces angiogenesis improving survival of vascular/human brain microvessel endothelial cells through pathways involving ERK1/2 and insulin receptor substrate-1.” Vascular cell vol. 4,1 20. 10 Dec. 2012, doi:10.1186/2045-824X-4-20↩
13. Hurtado, Olivia et al. “Neuroprotection afforded by prior citicoline administration in experimental brain ischemia: effects on glutamate transport.” Neurobiology of disease vol. 18,2 (2005): 336-45. doi:10.1016/j.nbd.2004.10.006↩
14. Cognizin Citicoline dosing in a healthy adolescent male population – full text view. Full Text View – ClinicalTrials.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved July 24, 2022, from https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01582113↩