Citicoline - Benefits, dosage, side effects

Citicolin is a drug that works by increasing a chemical in the brain called phospholipid phosphatidylcholine. This compound has the effect of protecting the brain, maintaining normal brain function, and reducing brain tissue damaged by injury. In addition, citicolin is able to increase blood flow and oxygen consumption in the brain. Actually, citicolin is a brain chemical compound that is naturally present in the human body. Its use as a drug is thought to be beneficial in:

  • Improve memory.
  • Speeds up the recovery period from a stroke.

Trademark: Brainact, Bralin, Cetivar, Cibren, Citicolin Sodium, Neurolin 500, Neuciti-250, Protecline, Nucoline, Takelin.

About Citicolin

groupNerve Vitamins
CategoryPrescription drugs
Benefit
  • Improve memory.
  • Speeds up the recovery period from a stroke.
Used byMature
Pregnancy and breastfeeding categoryCategory N: Not yet categorized. Until now, there has been no research that proves whether citicolin can be consumed by pregnant or lactating women. However, this drug is advised not to be given to pregnant or breastfeeding women.
ShapeTablets and injectable fluids

Warning:

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease.
  • Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including supplements and herbal products.
  • It is best not to drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery while taking citicolin, as this drug can cause headaches and blurred vision.
  • If an allergic reaction or overdose occurs after using citicolin, see a doctor immediately.

Citicoline Dosage

Drug formConditionDose
TabletStroke, head injury, or Parkinson's diseaseMature: 200-600 mg divided into several doses in one day
InjectMature: maximum up to one gram per day

Using Citicolin Correctly

Follow your doctor's recommendations and read the directions on the medicine package before taking citicolin. Do not increase or decrease the dose without the knowledge of the doctor. Citicolin tablets can be taken with or without food.

Citicoline injections are only given by a doctor so that the dosage is according to the patient's needs. The injection is given through a muscle (intramuscularly) or into a vein (intravenous).

Observe the bottle or package of citicolin injections before use. The injection fluid must be clear and without particles. Avoid using citicolin if the liquid has changed color, contains particles, or the packaging has leaked. If so, ask the medical staff to replace and provide a new drug packaging.

Drug Interaction

Citicolin is thought to interact with levodopa, carbidopa, and entacapone.

Recognize the Side Effects and Dangers of Citicolin

Side effects that may appear after using citicolin are:

  • Insomnia.
  • Headache.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Low blood pressure or hypotension.
  • High blood pressure or hypertension.
  • Nauseous.
  • Impaired vision.
  • Pain in the chest.

Stop using the drug and see a doctor immediately if side effects persist, interfere with activities, or if an allergic reaction occurs.