Citicoline, also known as cytidine diphosphate-choline (CDP-Choline) or cytidine 5'-diphosphocholine is an intermediate in the generation of phosphatidylcholine from choline, a common biochemical process in cell membranes. Citicoline is naturally occurring in the cells of human and animal tissue, in particular the organs.

Citicoline is the precursor of lecithin biosynthesis. When brain function declines, the content of lecithin in brain tissue is significantly reduced.

Citicoline can promote brain cell respiration, improve brain function, enhance the function of the ascending network structure activation system, promote recovery, and reduce cerebrovascular resistance.