Can You Take CDP-Choline (Citicoline) and Huperzine A Together?

Use extra care with this pair

The short answer

CDP-Choline increases acetylcholine synthesis by providing choline substrate, while Huperzine A inhibits acetylcholinesterase, preventing acetylcholine breakdown. Together they can cause significant cholinergic excess.

How to arrange timing

Exercise caution when combining. Use low doses of each and watch for excessive salivation, nausea, muscle twitching, or GI distress.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Tang XC, et al. Effect of huperzine A, a new cholinesterase inhibitor, on the central cholinergic system of the rat. J Neurosci Res. 1989;24(2):276-285.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.