Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Citicoline (also known as CDP-choline) is a compound involved in brain phospholipid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Its use in supporting or treating depression is based on its potential neuroprotective and neuroenhancing effects. The scientific evidence supporting citicoline’s use for depression is limited but emerging. Some preclinical studies suggest that citicoline may increase levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, which are often implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Small clinical studies have reported improvements in mood and cognitive function when citicoline is used as an adjunct to traditional antidepressants. For example, a few trials in elderly patients with cognitive impairment or vascular depression found some mood improvement with citicoline supplementation.

However, large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically targeting major depressive disorder in the general population are lacking. Most existing studies are small, often open-label, and focus on populations with comorbid cognitive impairment or stroke. Therefore, while there is a plausible biological rationale and some preliminary clinical support for citicoline’s use in depression, the overall evidence is weak to moderate at best. Citicoline is not currently a first-line or well-established treatment for depression, but may be considered as an adjunct in specific cases, pending further research.

In summary, citicoline’s use in depression is justified by limited scientific evidence, and more robust clinical trials are needed to firmly establish its efficacy for this indication.

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