The Use of Citicoline in Ophthalmology: A systematic review

Objectives: Citicoline is a chemical molecule, and it plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of cell membranes and has many functions in the human body. This compound, which increases the amount of neurotransmitters, is used in the treatment of various diseases in ophthalmology, neurology, and psychiatry. Its use as a supplement to improve cognitive functions is also widespread. In this review, we aim to shed light on the neuroprotective effects of citicoline and its applications in the field of ophthalmology, based on data obtained from published studies.
Methods: In the literature, the effects of citicoline in various ophthalmological diseases have been mentioned; however, there is no clear consensus regarding its dosage, duration of use, or efficacy due to the limited number of published studies and designs of these studies. Upon reviewing the current studies, we found evidence suggesting that citicoline supplementation may be effective in amblyopia, glaucoma, and non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy.
Conclusion: This review aims to evaluate and summarize the current evidence on the neuroprotective effects of citicoline in ophthalmologic diseases. Findings from various clinical studies suggest that it may have a beneficial effect on the treatment of conditions including amblyopia, glaucoma, and non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy.

Keywords: Amblyopia, CDP-choline, citicoline, glaucoma, non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy