Best CDP-Choline (Citicoline) Supplements (2026)

CDP-choline (citicoline) is one of the most effective nootropic supplements for supporting memory, focus, and overall brain health. It provides the body with choline — a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine — while also supporting phospholipid synthesis in brain cell membranes. Citicoline is well-researched and widely used for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and mental clarity.

Quick Comparison

Product	Dose	Form	Best For	Rating
Life Extension Citicoline (Cognizin)	500 mg	Capsules	Best Overall	4.7/5
Double Wood CDP Choline	300 mg	Capsules	Best Value	4.6/5
Jarrow Formulas Citicoline CDP Choline	250 mg	Capsules	Best Trusted Brand	4.6/5
Nutricost CDP Choline	300 mg	Capsules	Best Budget Pick	4.5/5
Doctor’s Best Citicoline (Cognizin)	250 mg	Capsules	Best Patented Form	4.6/5
Carlyle Citicoline CDP Choline	1,000 mg	Capsules	Most Potent	4.5/5
Citicoline 1000mg + Lion’s Mane	1,000 mg + 500 mg LM	Gummies	Best Combo Formula	4.4/5

1. Life Extension Citicoline (CDP-Choline) – Best Overall

Life Extension’s citicoline formula uses Cognizin® — the most clinically studied form of citicoline — delivering 500 mg per serving for proven memory, focus, and attention support.

This premium formula contains Cognizin® Citicoline at 500 mg per two-capsule serving, the patented form backed by multiple clinical studies demonstrating improvements in memory, focus, and attention. Life Extension is a trusted name in evidence-based supplementation with rigorous quality standards. The vegetarian capsules are gluten-free and made with non-GMO ingredients. Each bottle provides a 30-day supply at the full clinical dose.

• Pros:
• Uses Cognizin® — the gold standard patented citicoline form
• 500 mg dose matches clinical study dosages
• Life Extension’s reputation for quality and science-backed formulations

• Cons:
• Requires two capsules per serving
• Premium price point compared to generic citicoline

Best for: Anyone wanting the most research-backed citicoline supplement at a clinically effective dose

2. Double Wood Supplements CDP Choline – Best Value

Pharmaceutical-grade citicoline at 300 mg per capsule with third-party testing, all at a wallet-friendly price that’s hard to beat.

Double Wood delivers pharmaceutical-grade CDP choline at 300 mg per capsule — a solid maintenance dose that can be doubled for higher needs. The supplement undergoes third-party testing for purity and potency, providing quality assurance at a fraction of premium brand pricing. With 60 capsules per bottle, it offers up to two months of daily supplementation at the standard dose. The clean formula uses minimal excipients.

• Pros:
• Third-party tested for purity and potency
• Pharmaceutical-grade citicoline at an accessible price
• 60-day supply at the 300 mg maintenance dose

• Cons:
• 300 mg is below the 500 mg dose used in most clinical studies
• Gelatin capsules (not suitable for vegans)

Best for: Cost-conscious buyers who want quality citicoline without premium brand pricing

3. Jarrow Formulas Citicoline CDP Choline – Best Trusted Brand

From one of the most respected supplement manufacturers, Jarrow’s citicoline delivers 250 mg of stabilized CDP choline with a focus on brain energy metabolism.

Jarrow Formulas has been producing science-backed supplements since 1977, and their citicoline capsule is manufactured in cGMP-certified facilities tested by NSF. Each capsule provides 250 mg of stabilized cytidine 5′-diphosphocholine, supporting brain health, performance, and memory. The formula is non-GMO and gluten-free with minimal additional ingredients. Clinical research on citicoline has shown it supports attention performance in healthy adults and adolescents.

• Pros:
• Decades-long reputation for quality and scientific integrity
• NSF cGMP-certified manufacturing
• Clean formula with stabilized citicoline

• Cons:
• 250 mg per capsule requires doubling for higher doses
• Uses bovine gelatin capsules

Best for: Consumers who prioritize brand reputation, manufacturing quality, and scientific credibility

4. Nutricost CDP Choline (Citicoline) – Best Budget Pick

Nutricost delivers 300 mg of pure citicoline per capsule in a 120-count bottle — the best per-capsule value for long-term supplementation.

With 120 vegetarian capsules at 300 mg each, Nutricost offers up to four months of citicoline at the standard maintenance dose. The formula is non-GMO, vegetarian-friendly, and gluten-free with a minimal ingredient list. Nutricost is known for offering clean, no-frills supplements at competitive prices, and this citicoline product follows that pattern. The generous bottle count makes it one of the most cost-effective options for daily nootropic use.

• Pros:
• 120-count bottle provides exceptional long-term value
• Vegetarian capsules (unlike many competitors)
• Clean, minimal ingredient formula

• Cons:
• 300 mg per capsule (may need two for clinical dosing)
• No patented citicoline form like Cognizin®

Best for: Long-term users who want the most capsules per dollar without sacrificing quality

5. Doctor’s Best Citicoline CDP-Choline (Cognizin) – Best Patented Form

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Doctor’s Best pairs the patented Cognizin® citicoline with their pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards for a clinically validated brain health formula.

This formula features Cognizin® — the same patented citicoline used in clinical studies showing improved focus, attention, memory, and brain energy metabolism. Doctor’s Best is known for using branded, clinically studied ingredients rather than generic alternatives. The vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free capsules provide 250 mg per serving. Cognizin has been demonstrated to support acetylcholine production and phospholipid synthesis in brain cell membranes.

• Pros:
• Cognizin® patented citicoline with clinical backing
• Vegan-friendly formulation
• Doctor’s Best quality standards with transparent labeling

• Cons:
• 250 mg dose may require two capsules for optimal effects
• 60-count bottle provides only a 30-60 day supply

Best for: Those who want the clinical credibility of Cognizin® citicoline at a lower price than Life Extension

6. Carlyle Citicoline CDP Choline 1000mg – Most Potent

At 1,000 mg per serving, this is the highest-dose single-brand citicoline available — ideal for those who want maximum cognitive support without taking multiple capsules.

Carlyle delivers a full 1,000 mg of citicoline from citicoline sodium per serving in quick-release capsules. This potent dose exceeds the amounts used in most clinical studies, making it suitable for those seeking aggressive cognitive support. The formula is naturally free of gluten, wheat, yeast, lactose, soy, and artificial flavors. Carlyle’s 40+ years in the supplement industry back their commitment to trusted ingredients and laboratory testing.

• Pros:
• 1,000 mg dose — the highest single-serving citicoline available
• Quick-release capsules for fast absorption
• Free of major allergens and artificial ingredients

• Cons:
• 1,000 mg may be more than most people need
• 60-count bottle lasts only one month

Best for: Experienced nootropic users who want maximum citicoline dosing in a single capsule

7. CDP Choline 1,000mg with 120 Capsules – Best High-Dose Value

This extra-strength 1,000 mg citicoline delivers 120 capsules per bottle — combining high potency with a two-month supply at the maximum dose.

Providing 1,000 mg of premium CDP choline per serving across 120 capsules, this formula offers the best combination of high dosing and bottle count. Citicoline metabolizes into choline and cytidine, supporting acetylcholine synthesis, phosphatidylcholine production, and brain energy metabolism. The water-soluble formula is designed for easy absorption and utilization. The non-GMO capsules provide a full two-month supply at the highest recommended dose.

• Pros:
• 120 capsules at 1,000 mg — outstanding potency-to-value ratio
• Water-soluble for efficient absorption
• Full two-month supply at the maximum dose

• Cons:
• High dose may not be necessary for all users
• Does not use a patented citicoline form

Best for: Those who want high-dose citicoline without frequent reordering

8. Citicoline 1000mg Plus Lion’s Mane 500mg Gummies – Best Combo Formula

This innovative formula combines 1,000 mg of citicoline with 500 mg of lion’s mane mushroom extract in a strawberry gummy, pairing two powerful nootropics for synergistic brain support.

This dual-action brain supplement pairs citicoline with lion’s mane mushroom — a combination that targets both neurotransmitter production and nerve growth factor stimulation. The liposomal delivery technology enhances citicoline absorption for more effective results. Additional ingredients include omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, and niacin for comprehensive cognitive support. The strawberry gummy format makes daily nootropic supplementation more enjoyable than swallowing large capsules.

• Pros:
• Combines two complementary nootropics (citicoline + lion’s mane)
• Liposomal delivery technology for enhanced absorption
• Tasty gummy format improves compliance

• Cons:
• Contains added sugars and other gummy ingredients
• Higher cost per serving than standalone citicoline capsules

Best for: Those who want a multi-nootropic stack in a convenient gummy format

9. Brain Supplements for Memory and Focus (Nootropic Complex) – Best Nootropic Stack

This comprehensive 120-capsule nootropic complex combines citicoline with additional cognitive-support ingredients for a full-spectrum brain health formula.

Designed as a complete cognitive support supplement, this formula features citicoline alongside complementary nootropic ingredients targeting memory, focus, and mental clarity. The 120-capsule bottle provides extended use, and the multi-ingredient approach addresses cognitive health from multiple angles — neurotransmitter support, brain energy production, and neuroprotection. Made in the USA for adults seeking comprehensive brain health supplementation.

• Pros:
• Multi-ingredient nootropic stack for comprehensive cognitive support
• 120 capsules for extended supply
• Targets multiple cognitive pathways simultaneously

• Cons:
• Individual citicoline dose may be lower than standalone products
• Complex formulas make it harder to identify which ingredients are effective

Best for: People who want a complete brain health stack without buying multiple separate supplements

How to Choose the Best CDP-Choline (Citicoline) Supplement

The most important factor is the form of citicoline. Cognizin® is the most clinically studied patented form, backed by research showing improvements in memory, focus, and brain energy. Generic citicoline and citicoline sodium are also effective and typically more affordable. All forms deliver the same core compound, but Cognizin® offers the strongest research validation.

Dosage typically ranges from 250 mg to 1,000 mg per day. Most clinical studies showing cognitive benefits used doses between 250 mg and 500 mg daily. Higher doses (500-1,000 mg) may benefit older adults or those with specific cognitive concerns. For general brain health maintenance, 250-500 mg daily is sufficient for most people. Start at the lower end and increase if needed.

Capsule count and per-serving cost vary significantly between brands. A 120-capsule bottle at 300 mg per capsule can last four months at a standard dose, making it far more economical than a 60-count bottle of the same strength. Consider total cost per milligram rather than per bottle when comparing products. Vegetarian capsules are available from several manufacturers for those avoiding gelatin.

Third-party testing and GMP certification are essential quality markers. Citicoline is a precise compound, and independent lab verification ensures you’re getting the stated dose without contaminants. Brands like Life Extension, Jarrow, and Double Wood highlight their testing protocols, which adds confidence to the purchase. Avoid products without clear quality assurances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CDP-choline (citicoline) and what does it do?

CDP-choline (cytidine diphosphate-choline) is a naturally occurring compound that the body uses to produce phosphatidylcholine, a key component of brain cell membranes. It also serves as a precursor to acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter most closely associated with memory, learning, and attention. Supplementing with citicoline supports brain energy metabolism and has been shown to improve cognitive function in clinical studies.

How much citicoline should I take daily?

Most research supports doses between 250 mg and 500 mg daily for general cognitive enhancement. Some studies have used up to 1,000-2,000 mg for specific neurological applications. For daily nootropic use, 250-500 mg is typically sufficient. Start at the lower end and assess your response over 2-4 weeks before considering an increase.

When is the best time to take citicoline?

Morning or early afternoon is generally preferred since citicoline can enhance alertness and focus. Taking it with a meal may improve absorption and reduce the chance of mild stomach upset. Avoid taking citicoline in the evening as it may interfere with sleep for some individuals due to its energizing effects on brain metabolism.

Are there any side effects of citicoline?

Citicoline is generally well-tolerated with a strong safety profile. Possible side effects include mild headache, nausea, insomnia (especially at higher doses or when taken late in the day), and digestive discomfort. These effects are uncommon and typically resolve with dose adjustment. Citicoline has been used safely in clinical studies at doses up to 2,000 mg daily.

What is the difference between citicoline and alpha-GPC?

Both are choline sources that support acetylcholine production, but they work differently. Citicoline provides both choline and cytidine (which converts to uridine, supporting brain cell membrane repair). Alpha-GPC provides a higher percentage of choline per gram. Citicoline has broader neuroprotective research, while alpha-GPC may be slightly more effective for pure acetylcholine boosting. Many nootropic users consider them complementary rather than interchangeable.

How long does it take for citicoline to work?

Some users notice improved focus and mental clarity within the first few days of supplementation. However, the full cognitive benefits of citicoline typically develop over 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use, as the compound gradually supports brain cell membrane integrity, neurotransmitter levels, and cerebral blood flow. For best results, take citicoline daily rather than on an as-needed basis.