CDP-choline, or citicoline, is an intermediate in the synthesis of phospholipids, which are essential components in the assembly and repair of cell and mitochondrial membranes.

Therefore, CDP-choline may have neuroprotective qualities as well as therapeutic effects in Parkinson’s disease.51,52

Several studies have investigated using CDP-choline as a supplement to levodopa. CDP-choline reportedly allows reductions in levodopa doses by up to 50% without any reduction in symptom control.53,54

CDP-choline may enhance dopaminergic therapy in Parkinson’s disease through multiple mechanisms, including decreased reuptake of dopamine leading to increased levels at the synaptic cleft. Additionally, CDP-choline activates tyrosine-hydroxylase and induces increased dopamine production.55