HomeAnswersGeneral PractitionerciticolineIs it acceptable to take a supplement to improve and boost brain functions?

Will Citicoline supplement help in boosting brain functions?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Aleph

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At January 30, 2021
Reviewed AtDecember 6, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I want to ask if supplementing on Citicoline (Cognizin) is safe. I need a boost in the workplace to support my focus and productivity. I need approval from a doctor to ensure its safety.

Answered by Dr. Aleph

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Citicoline is a chemical that is normally produced in our brains, which helps in cognitive function and is prescribed for patients with Alzheimer's and common cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke and Parkinson's. I have not encountered studies wherein this drug has been prescribed to a normal healthy individual. It is not given as a supplement unless you have the aforementioned diseases and not to be taken for more than 90 days due to its side effects and safety profile. Also, even in the context of having a cerebrovascular disease, it is only given as an adjunct to the main therapeutic efforts. If your goal is to improve focus and productivity, I would suggest trying omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B and E, and Gingko Biloba. Please note that there are not many studies to back up these vitamins and minerals are effective in improving cognitive function, but it does not mean they do not work. It is just that there are not enough clinical trials to prove their absolute efficacy. There are also studies regarding diets, and some have found that Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diet helps in improving brain function. You may look it up on the internet to provide you a general idea of what those diets are composed of, but generally, these foods are rich in omega fatty acids and vitamins mentioned above. To conclude, I would advise you not to take Citicoline as a supplement due to its side effects and safety profile, especially if you are a healthy individual. By taking it, common side effects would include headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, and insomnia. Hence, it would only defeat your objectives. Thank you.

Treatment plan

For treatment, I suggest you take one capsule of omega-3 fatty acid 500 mg daily. Take one multivitamin tablet (with vitamins B and E) daily.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

This is noted Doc. Thanks this very helpful and informative. Best Regards.

Answered by Dr. Aleph

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

All the best, be safe always and thank you for the kind feedback.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I recently bought a supplement to help me to stay alert at work. It is Usana Copaprime plus. I just want to consult you first to make sure that it is safe to use as a supplement. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Aleph

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Upon checking, it is mostly composed of natural herbal supplements. I tried searching for other literatures but I found no peer reviewed study yet to back up its declared efficacy. However, upon checking the other ingredients. I found no chemicals that would cause alarm and that would make the product not safe to take. You may take the supplement as advised. Do not take more than what is recommended. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

This is very helpful. Yes, we will follow the recommended dosage.

Answered by Dr. Aleph

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Be safe, always. Thank you for your kind feedback.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Aleph

Dr. Aleph

General Practitioner

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