Rafał Sochacki, Artur Przybyłowski
Versatile Applications of Citicoline in Medicine
2025-01-14
Subject of research. Citicoline, also known as CDP-choline, is a natural precursor of phosphatidylcholine, essential for the synthesis and stabilization of cell membranes and the production of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. Citicoline exhibits significant neuroprotective properties, making it a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of various neurological disorders.
Aim of the research. The aim of the research was to investigate the efficacy and therapeutic potential of citicoline in the treatment of stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, glaucoma, and cocaine addiction. The research aimed to assess the impact of citicoline on cognitive functions, functional outcomes of patients, quality of life, and reduction of neurological symptoms.
Material and methods. The analysis included a review of scientific literature concerning clinical and experimental studies related to citicoline. Focus was placed on randomized, double-blind clinical trials that provided data on the efficacy of citicoline in treating the mentioned conditions. The results were analyzed concerning the improvement of cognitive functions, reduction of neurological symptoms, and impact on patients’ quality of life.
Results. In the treatment of stroke, citicoline improves the functional outcomes of patients, reduces neurological deficits, and accelerates rehabilitation. For patients with Alzheimer’s disease, citicoline improves cognitive functions and quality of life, especially when combined with cholinesterase inhibitors. In the case of Parkinson’s disease, citicoline reduces motor symptoms such as bradykinesia and rigidity and supports cognitive functions. In ophthalmology, citicoline improves visual functions and slows the progression of glaucoma. In the treatment of cocaine addiction, citicoline reduces craving symptoms and improves cognitive functions, which can support the therapy of addicted individuals.
Conclusions. The literature review indicates the promising therapeutic potential of citicoline in the treatment of stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, glaucoma, and cocaine addiction. Citicoline demonstrates the ability to improve cognitive functions, patients’ quality of life, and reduce neurological symptoms. However, further randomized, double-blind clinical trials with large patient groups are necessary to confirm these applications and establish optimal treatment protocols.
Keywords: stroke, glaucoma, neuroprotection, neuroregeneration, citicoline.
© Farm Pol, 2024, 80(8): 555–577