No known drug interactions for the matched ingredients — not a guarantee none exist. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Life Extension

Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
No known interaction
The interaction bottom line No known interaction

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) is a dietary supplement by Life Extension with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for memory and thinking, brain health and aging, stroke recovery support.We don’t currently list a known drug interaction for its mapped ingredients — but that doesn’t guarantee none exist, so always confirm with your pharmacist.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: citicoline, a compound your brain naturally produces that plays a role in cell membrane health and function. The capsule itself is made up of inactive ingredients—cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, silica, and stearate—which are fillers and binders that help deliver the active ingredient.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Memory and brain health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Cerebrovascular disease, Parkinson disease, Stroke — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Citicoline is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related cognitive decline (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Citicoline is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Stroke.
  • Also on file: Citicoline is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Alzheimer disease, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Cerebrovascular disease, Vascular dementia, and more.

Citicoline is possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and glaucoma, based on the evidence we hold. For stroke, the data suggests it's likely ineffective.

For Alzheimer disease, traumatic brain injury, and cardiac arrest, we don't yet have enough reliable evidence to say whether it works or doesn't. If you're considering this for a specific condition, talk with your doctor about what the research actually shows for your situation.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Citicoline

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Orally, citicoline is generally well tolerated, though long-term safety hasn't been fully studied yet. In trials, the most common side effects were abdominal pain, back pain, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, swelling, headache, insomnia, nausea, and rash—but these occurred in a small number of participants.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: there isn't enough safety data, so it's best to avoid this supplement if you're pregnant or nursing. Talk with your OB or pharmacist if you're considering it during these times.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Citicoline

Meds to double-check

No known interactions
Known Interaction Concern · database check
No known interactions

No medication interactions are currently documented for the matched ingredients — that isn't a guarantee none exist.

Why this rating?
  • None of the 1 matched ingredient has a documented medication interaction on file.

No interactions are documented in our data for citicoline with any medication types. Still, run your exact prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs through the checker on this page, or ask your pharmacist—they know your full medication list best.

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. No medication interactions are currently documented, and safety information is well characterized.

Citicoline may be worth considering if you're looking for support with age-related memory changes or eye health, though the evidence for other brain conditions is still limited or lacking. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications, check with your pharmacist first.

Long-term safety data is still being built, so this is something to revisit with your doctor periodically.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 23, 2025.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Citicoline (CDP-Choline), straight from the product label.

Brand Life Extension
Barcode (UPC) 737870165965
Net contents 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 23, 2025
DSLD ID 328397
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
737870165965
IngredientAmount% DV
Citicoline250 mg--

Other ingredients: Cellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silica, Stearate

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements

Scan for product info

Precautions

Read the entire label and follow the directions carefully prior to use.

Warnings: Keep out of reach of children.

Do not exceed recommended dose. Do not purchase if outer seal is broken or damaged.

When using nutritional supplements, please consult with your physician if you are undergoing treatment for a medical condition or if you are pregnant or lactating.

To report a serious adverse event or obtain product information, contact 1-866-280-2852.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Take one (1) capsule daily, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Formulation

Gluten Free Non GMO Le Certified

Enhances cognitive & memory function

Seals/Symbols

Non GMO Le Certified

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place.

See for yourself

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Citicoline

No known
interactions
250 mg per serving Form: Citicoline Monosodium Salt

Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound involved in making brain cell membranes and the messenger chemical acetylcholine. It is popularly taken f...

Citicoline monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silica, Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension Drug Interactions

We don’t currently list any known drug interactions for the mapped ingredients in Citicoline (CDP-Choline). This doesn’t guarantee none exist — always confirm with your pharmacist before combining a supplement with your medications.

The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Citicoline (CDP-Choline), from the product label.

Life Extension

See all Life Extension products
Name
Quality Supplements and Vitamins, Inc.
City
Ft. Lauderdale
State
FL
ZipCode
33309
Phone Number
1-866-280-2852
Web Address
LifeExtension.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension: Common Questions

Does Citicoline (CDP-Choline) by Life Extension interact with any medications?
We do not currently list a known interaction for the mapped ingredients in Citicoline (CDP-Choline). This does not guarantee none exist, so confirm with your pharmacist.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Citicoline (CDP-Choline) contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
What is citicoline, and what does it do?
Citicoline is a compound your brain naturally makes that helps keep brain cell membranes healthy and functioning properly. It's thought to support memory and thinking skills, though how well it works varies by condition.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No—there isn't enough safety data on citicoline during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid it. Talk with your OB or pharmacist about whether this supplement makes sense for you right now.
What side effects might I experience?
Most people tolerate citicoline well, but a small number report abdominal pain, back pain, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, headache, insomnia, nausea, swelling, or rash. If any of these bother you, stop and talk to your pharmacist.
Does citicoline really work for memory and brain health?
It's possibly effective for age-related memory decline and glaucoma, but the evidence for other brain conditions like Alzheimer disease or stroke recovery is either lacking or suggests it doesn't help. Your doctor can help you decide if it's right for your situation.
Is this safe to take long-term?
Citicoline is generally well tolerated in studies, but long-term safety data is still being developed. This is worth discussing with your doctor if you're thinking about taking it regularly.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Citicoline (CDP-Choline) is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Citicoline (CDP-Choline)’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Citicoline (CDP-Choline)'s label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 11 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Citicoline 11 references
  1. Spiers PA, Myers D, Hochanadel GS, et al. Citicoline improves verbal memory in aging. Arch Neurol 1996;53:441-8. PubMed
  2. Fioravanti M, Yanagi M. Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP-choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderly. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2005;(2):CD000269. PubMed
  3. Conant R, Schauss AG. Therapeutic applications of citicoline for stroke and cognitive function in the elderly: A review of the literature. Altern Med Rev 2004;9:17-31.
  4. Warach, S., Pettigrew, L. C., Dashe, J. F., Pullicino, P., Lefkowitz, D. M., Sabounjian, L., Harnett, K., Schwiderski, U., and Gammans, R. Effect of citicoline on ischemic lesions as measured by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Citicoline 0 DOI
  5. Lukas, S. E., Kouri, E. M., Rhee, C., Madrid, A., and Renshaw, P. F. Effects of short-term citicoline treatment on acute cocaine intoxication and cardiovascular effects. Psychopharmacology.(Berl.) 2001;157(2):163-167. PubMed
  6. Dinsdale, J. R., Griffiths, G. K., Castello, J., Maddock, J., Ortiz, J. A., and Aylward, M. CDP-choline: repeated oral dose tolerance studies in adult healthy volunteers. Arzneimittelforschung. 1983;33(7A):1061-1065.
  7. Clark BC, Georgekutty J, Berul CI. Myocardial ischemia secondary to synthetic cannabinoid (K2) use in pediatric patients. J Pediatr 2015;167(3):757-61.e1. PubMed
  8. Ghajar A, Gholamian F, Tabatabei-Motlagh M, et al. Citicoline (CDP-choline) add-on therapy to risperidone for treatment of negative symptoms in patients with stable schizophrenia: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2
  9. Castagna A, Manzo C, Fabbo A, Lacava R, Ruberto C, Ruotolo G. The CITIMERIVA Study: CITIcoline plus MEmantina plus RIVAstigmine in Older Patients Affected with Alzheimer's Disease. Clin Drug Investig. 2021 Feb;41(2):177-182. PubMed
  10. Jeong H, Yoon S, Sung YH, et al. Effects of cytidine-5'-diphosphate choline on gray matter volumes in methamphetamine-dependent patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Psychiatr Res 2021;143:215-221. PubMed
  11. Nakazaki E, Mah E, Sanoshy K, Citrolo D, Watanabe F. Citicoline and Memory Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Nutr 2021;151(8):2153-2160. PubMed

See these in context on the Citicoline monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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