Somazina, Ceraxon, Cognizin, Nicholine, Neuroton, Citicol
Generic Name
Citicoline
Manufacturer
Various international and local manufacturers (e.g., Pfizer, Takeda, Square, Incepta, Beximco)
Country
Globally manufactured, with local production in many countries including Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Citicoline (CDP-choline) is a brain chemical that occurs naturally in the body. It is used as a medicine to improve brain function, enhance memory, and help in the recovery from neurological damage such as stroke and head injury.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500-2000 mg per day, divided into 1-2 doses, depending on the condition and severity. May be given orally, intravenously, or intramuscularly.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for elderly patients, but caution is advised in those with severe comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is generally necessary for patients with renal impairment, but clinical monitoring is recommended.
How to Take
Oral tablets/solution can be taken with or without food. Injections are administered intravenously (slow infusion) or intramuscularly.
Mechanism of Action
Citicoline increases the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major component of neuronal membranes. It also enhances acetylcholine and dopamine levels in the brain, improving neurotransmission. Furthermore, it has neuroprotective effects by reducing free radical damage and inhibiting apoptosis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects may be observed within hours for acute conditions, but cognitive benefits typically develop over weeks to months.
Excretion
Excreted primarily as carbon dioxide via respiration (approx. 80%) and via urine (less than 15%).
Half life
Biphasic elimination; initial half-life is short, followed by a prolonged terminal half-life due to incorporation into structural lipids.
Absorption
Citicoline is well absorbed orally, with a bioavailability of about 90%. It is hydrolyzed in the gut wall and liver to choline and cytidine.
Metabolism
Rapidly metabolized to choline and cytidine. Choline can be re-synthesized into acetylcholine or incorporated into phospholipids. Cytidine is converted to uridine and can be incorporated into nucleic acids.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Known hypersensitivity to Citicoline or any excipients
- •Patients with severe vagotonia (due to potential for hypotension)
Drug Interactions
Levodopa
Citicoline may enhance the effects of levodopa, especially in patients with Parkinson's disease. Dosage adjustment of levodopa might be necessary.
Meclofenoxate
Avoid concurrent use as it may reduce the effectiveness of Citicoline.
Centrophenoxine
Concomitant administration should be avoided.
Storage
Store below 30°C, in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Citicoline has a low toxicity profile. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be provided. No specific antidote is available.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B/C. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Consult a doctor. Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, depending on the formulation and manufacturer. Refer to the product packaging for specific details.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals worldwide
Approval Status
Approved in various countries for neurological conditions
Patent Status
Generally off-patent in most countries
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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