CDP-choline is a molecule that is a combination of choline together with cytidine. Choline is a component for the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is closely linked to memory and largely determines clarity of thought [1]. Cytidine, on the other hand, converts to uridine, a compound that affects the plasticity of the synaptic membrane [2] and contributes to the neurotransmission of dopamine – affecting the ability to maintain attention, the desire to act, giving satisfaction from the task completion process, and linked to libido.
Properties:
Cytidine, converted to uridine, increases dopamine activity by increasing the concentration of the transporter for dopamine DAT [3], by increasing the amount of dopamine released from the stimulated neuron [4], and by increasing the density of dopamine receptors [5].
CDP-choline reduces decreases in dopamine secretion when neurons are affected by neurotoxins [6, 7], through a protective mechanism in the dopamine neuronal area.
It can support recovery from addictions to drugs such as cocaine [9], alcohol or marijuana smoking [9] due to its effects on the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic systems [10].
In a study using CDP-choline, a decrease in the frequency of cocaine use, a reduction in the desire to induce euphoria with cocaine and a decrease in perceived cocaine craving were observed in cocaine users [8], suggesting its properties that may reduce the mechanism of cocaine dependence.
CDP-choline inhibits the reduction of the brain’s grey matter volume on exposure to amphetamines [11], which is the origin of the popular party drug MDMA [18], as well as the attraction to this type of substance in regular users (as opposed to the placebo group).
It reduces errors associated with, among other things, difficulty in maintaining focus [12], indicating its property to improve the ability to maintain attention in concentration disorders.
Influences the maintenance of the activity of the ATP-producing enzyme, acetylcholinesterase, promoting health at the cellular level [13].
Promotes glutathione activity [14] and reduces apoptosis [15], which is likely a consequence of preserving cell membrane plasticity, as shown in a study with experimentally induced stroke in rodents [16].
For THC abusers, it may improve emotional self-control, the disruption of which is a common symptom of drug use, and improves concentration in these individuals, deficits of which also co-occur with frequent substance use [17].
List of scientific sources:
1. doi: 10.2174/092986708783503203
2. DOI: 10.2174/156802611795347618
3. DOI: 10.2174/1871527311312010015
4. DOI: 10.1385/JMN:27:1:137
5. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.1991.tb12471.x.
6. doi: 10.1080/10623320600934341
7. doi: 10.1016/s0022-510x(03)00204-1
8. doi: 10.1007/s002130050871
9. doi: 10.1097/ADM.0b013e3181d80c93
10. doi: 10.1016/0165-6147(94)90158-9
11. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.09.006
12. DOI: 10.4236/fns.2012.36103
13. DOI: 10.1016/s0009-9120(00)00084-9
14. DOI: 10.1161/hs1001.096010
15. doi: 10.1016/s0028-3908(02)00032-1.
16. DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2011.12.015
17. Int J Neurol Neurother. 2015 Sep 30; 2(3): 1–8.
18. doi: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2003.07.001.