Evidence supporting the use of: Citicholine
For the health condition: Concussions

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Synopsis

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

Citicoline (also known as CDP-choline) is a compound that has been investigated for its potential neuroprotective effects, including in the context of concussion (mild traumatic brain injury). The scientific rationale for citicoline's use is based on its role as a precursor in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a key component of neuronal cell membranes, and its involvement in enhancing neuroplasticity, reducing neuronal damage, and supporting membrane repair.

However, evidence from clinical trials specifically examining citicoline for concussion is limited and mixed. Some early studies suggested possible cognitive benefits in traumatic brain injury (TBI) populations, but these were often focused on moderate to severe TBI, not mild TBI (concussion). Large, high-quality trials, such as the COBRIT trial (Zafonte et al., JAMA 2012), found no significant benefit of citicoline over placebo in functional and cognitive outcomes after TBI, though this study included a range of injury severities.

There is some preclinical (animal model) data suggesting that citicoline may help mitigate secondary injury processes after brain trauma. Nonetheless, current clinical evidence does not robustly support its efficacy for concussions in humans. Major guidelines do not recommend citicoline as a standard treatment for concussion. Thus, while there is a plausible scientific basis and some preliminary evidence, definitive clinical support is lacking.

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