Impact of Citicoline on Sleep and Alzheimer's Biomarkers

Improving Sleep and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Biomarkers: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT) of Citicoline

Not applicable Interventional Emory University · NCT06029894

This study is testing whether a citicoline supplement can improve sleep quality and brain function in people with mild cognitive impairment and see how it affects Alzheimer's-related markers.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEmory University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06029894 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research investigates the effects of a dietary citicoline supplement on sleep quality and cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study employs a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled design, recruiting participants from the Emory Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the community. Researchers will assess cognitive decline and biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's disease, including Amyloid-Beta and tau proteins, to determine the supplement's efficacy. Participants will undergo interviews and may provide blood samples for biomarker analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric disorders, certain chronic illnesses, or those currently taking medications affecting sleep may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance sleep quality and cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment, potentially slowing the progression to Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that citicoline may positively impact cognitive decline, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age: 60 years or older
* Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
* Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index total score \>5 or Epworth Sleepiness Scale score of ≥ 10
* Read and understand English
* Have Internet and email access

Exclusion Criteria:

* No telephone access
* Must not be taking any medication known to affect rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (or sleep architecture in general)
* Use of choline supplements.
* Epilepsy or head trauma resulting in unconsciousness in the past two years
* Known allergic reactions to components of Citicoline
* Presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, severe cardiac insufficiency (congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction), type I diabetes, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency, liver cirrhosis, thyroid dysfunction, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic renal failure, severe/unstable psychiatric disorders, moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome or periodic limb movement disorder
* History of alcohol dependence and drug abuse
* Night shift workers or those in situations where they regularly experience jet lag or have irregular work schedules

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mild Cognitive ImpairmentAlzheimer DiseaseDementiaCiticoline supplement
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.