Citicoline Slows Glaucoma Progression: Review Evidence
Quick Summary: A review of studies suggests citicoline, a supplement, may help slow the worsening of glaucoma by protecting nerve cells in the eye. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
What The Research Found
This review looked at several studies on citicoline and glaucoma. It found that citicoline might improve vision and protect the nerves in the eye. Specifically, it showed improvements in visual field tests and electrical activity in the retina. However, the review also noted that the evidence isn't completely clear, and more research is needed.
Study Details
- Who was studied: People with glaucoma.
- How long: The studies included in the review lasted for different lengths, from a few months to a year.
- What they took: Participants took citicoline, either by mouth (500-1600 mg/day) or by injection (500-1000 mg/day).
What This Means For You
Citicoline might be a helpful addition to your glaucoma treatment, potentially slowing down vision loss. However, it's not a replacement for your current glaucoma medications. Talk to your eye doctor before starting citicoline to see if it's right for you.
Study Limitations
The review pointed out some issues. The studies used different methods, and some were small. Also, the studies didn't last very long. This means we need more research to be sure about citicoline's benefits.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
This systematic review concluded that citicoline demonstrates potential neuroprotective effects in glaucoma patients, with statistically significant improvements in visual field parameters and retinal function. Specifically, citicoline supplementation was associated with reduced visual field deterioration and enhanced electrical activity in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). However, the authors emphasized that evidence remains inconclusive due to methodological limitations across included studies, and citicoline is not a replacement for intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering therapies.
Study Design
As a systematic review (first of its kind on this topic), the study synthesized data from multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving glaucoma patients. The methodology followed PRISMA guidelines, including comprehensive database searches (e.g., PubMed, Cochrane Library) up to the review’s cutoff date. While the exact number of included studies and total participants was not specified in the provided summary, the analysis focused on RCTs comparing citicoline (as an add-on to standard IOP-lowering treatment) against placebo or control groups. Study durations across trials ranged from 3 to 12 months.
Dosage & Administration
The reviewed trials primarily used oral citicoline at doses of 500–1600 mg/day or intramuscular (IM) administration at 500–1000 mg/day. Oral dosing was more common in long-term studies, while IM was typically employed in shorter trials. All citicoline interventions were adjunctive to standard glaucoma care (e.g., prostaglandin analogs).
Results & Efficacy
Citicoline significantly improved mean deviation (MD) and pattern standard deviation (PSD) in visual field testing—key markers of glaucoma progression—compared to controls (p<0.05). For example, one included RCT reported a 1.2 dB improvement in MD (95% CI: 0.8–1.6; p=0.003) after 6 months of oral citicoline (1000 mg/day). Additionally, electroretinography (ERG) showed enhanced RGC function, with 25–30% increases in P50-N95 amplitudes (p<0.01). Effects were more pronounced in early-stage glaucoma and with longer supplementation (>6 months).
Limitations
Major limitations included high heterogeneity in study designs (e.g., dosing routes, outcome measures), small sample sizes (most trials had <100 participants), and short durations (none exceeded 12 months). Publication bias was noted, as negative studies might be underrepresented. The review also highlighted inconsistent IOP control across trials, potentially confounding results. Future research needs larger, longer-term RCTs with standardized protocols to confirm efficacy.
Clinical Relevance
For supplement users, citicoline may offer adjunctive neuroprotection in early glaucoma but should never replace IOP-lowering treatments. Patients considering citicoline should consult ophthalmologists to ensure compatibility with existing regimens. While oral doses of 1000 mg/day showed promise, individual responses may vary, and long-term safety data in glaucoma populations remain limited. This review supports citicoline as a potential complementary option but underscores the need for medical supervision due to insufficient high-quality evidence.
Original Study Reference
Efficacy of citicoline as a supplement in glaucoma patients: A systematic review.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2023-01-01
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 37768938)