Synopsis

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

Citicoline (also known as CDP-choline) has been investigated as a potential adjunct treatment for Parkinson’s Disease (PD), primarily due to its role as a choline donor and its influence on phospholipid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis, particularly dopamine. Some scientific studies, mostly from the late 20th century, suggested that citicoline administration could improve motor symptoms and overall clinical picture in PD patients, especially when used in conjunction with levodopa therapy. For example, small clinical trials and open-label studies (e.g., Secades & Lorenzo, 2006; Agnoli et al., 1982) reported modest improvements in motor function and a possible reduction in required levodopa dosages. The proposed mechanisms include enhancement of dopamine synthesis and release, neuroprotection by stabilizing cell membranes, and supporting neuronal repair. However, these studies were generally small, lacked rigorous controls, and have not been widely replicated in recent, large-scale, placebo-controlled trials. Systematic reviews and recent guidelines do not currently endorse citicoline as a standard therapy for PD due to insufficient high-quality evidence. Nevertheless, its favorable safety profile and plausible mechanisms of action have kept it of interest to some clinicians and researchers. In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary clinical data supporting the use of citicoline in PD, the strength of evidence is low (rated 2/5), and more robust clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and clinical role.

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