Can Citicoline Boost Your Memory Function?

This article features an adapted research abstract on the use of the supplement citicoline to improve brain function and memory. 

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of citicoline (Cognizin®), on memory in healthy
elderly populations with age-associated memory impairment (AAMI).  (See note)

Methods: A total of 100 healthy men and women aged between 50 and 85 years of age with AAMI participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial for a 12 week period. Participants were randomized to receive either a placebo or citicoline (500 mg/d) for 12 weeks.

Results: After the 12-wk intervention, participants supplemented with citicoline showed significantly greater improvements in secondary outcomes of episodic memory compared with those on placebo. Composite memory calculated using the scores of 4 memory tests, also significantly improved to a greater extent following citicoline supplementation with placebo.

Episodic memory describes the ability to remember and recall specific events, paired with the content in which they occurred. An example: Where were you when you heard about the 9/11 attacks?

Conclusions: Dietary supplementation of citicoline for 12 weeks improved overall memory performance, especially episodic memory, in healthy older males and females with AAMI. The findings suggest that regular consumption of citicoline may be safe and potentially beneficial against memory loss due to aging.    J Nutr 2021;151:2153–216

Note:  The brand Cognizin® was used in this study and is one of several similar products for citicoline. The recommended dose in thie study is 250 – 500 mg. Reportedly, research has shown the supplement to be safe in doses up to 1000 mg per day.