APPLICATION OF CITICOLINE IN SUPPORTING THERAPY OF SELECTED DISEASES.

Citicoline (exogenous CDP-choline) is a nootropic (procognitive) compound and a psychostimulant. This substance exhibits a strong neuroprotective effect: it participates in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a vital component of cell membranes, thus supporting the processes of synthesis and regeneration of neuron membranes. It stimulates synaptogenesis via its capacity to inhibit the process of demyelination process and promotes myelin regeneration. In addition, it prevents apoptosis of the neurons. The application of citicoline improves the health status of persons diagnosed with a stroke, brain trauma, as well as in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Citicoline administered to patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease enables reducing the therapeutic dose of levodopa and, as a consequence, decrease the level of adverse events. What is more, scientific research has shown that citicoline applied in this clinical entity has a positive impact on the motor function of the patient. Citicoline improves memory and concentration in the elderly, resulting in improved cognitive functions in demented conditions. The neuroprotective properties of citicoline suggest its application in the treatment of patients diagnosed with glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disorder. Improvement of the vision parameters was observed independent of the route of administration (intramuscularly, intravenously, orally, or in the form of eye drops) of drugs containing citicoline. Citicoline administration in addiction treatment (cocaine, methamphetamine) has produced positive effects. Application of this substance in alcohol withdrawal syndrome treatment improves concentration and orientation in space-time. Citicoline has low toxicity, which has been confirmed via animal testing and clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]