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Benefits of CDP Choline

CDP choline is a natural compound that is produced by the body and can be manufactured artificially. It has been used for the treatment of a wide variety of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, seizure disorders and Parkinson's disease. The name stands for cytidine 5-diphosphocholine; it is most commonly produced and marketed under the commercial name of citicoline.

  1. How CDP Choline Works

    • CDP choline passes directly from the bloodstream into the cell membranes of the central nervous system. It helps the brain synthesize a class of neurotransmitters known as phosphodiesters, which are found in the cell membranes of brain tissue. As people age, the level of phosphodiesters in the brain falls, which can affect memory and other essential brain functions. Important phosphodiesters include phosphatidylcholine and glycerophosphoethanolamine.

    Uses of CDP Choline

    • Treatment with CDP choline aids memory in patients suffering from Alzheimer's. It also may help people who have suffered head injury, concussion and other trauma to the brain caused by stroke or by accidental injury. CDP choline also has been used for those suffering with memory loss and for those who have seizures as a result of epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

    Coma Sufferers

    • CDP choline is also promoted as an aid to blood circulation and the utilization of oxygen in the brain. In this role, it can help patients who have been in a coma to return to normal neurological function, regain motor skills and improve physical coordination.

    Over the Counter

    • CDP choline has long been available in Europe under various product names, and it has been legally sold over the counter in the United States since 1998. A typical single dose is 250 to 500 milligrams per day.

    Memory Enhancer

    • CDP choline, branded as citicoline, is used as an ingredient in some energy drinks and as a nutritional supplement sold as an enhancement to brain and memory function. People taking a single dose of CDP choline have reported enhanced mental acuity, awareness, memory and energy. There have been few studies done, however, on side effects, which include increased heart rate and blood pressure.

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