norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˈnȯr-ˌe-pə-ˈne-frən 

: a monoamine C₈H₁₁NO₃ that is a neurotransmitter in postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system, is a vasopressor hormone of the adrenal medulla, and is a precursor of epinephrine in its major biosynthetic pathway

Examples of norepinephrine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hypoglycemia triggers the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline) in your body. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 29 Nov. 2024

That’s why stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin, which increase norepinephrine more powerfully than everyday anxiety, have powerful energizing effects. —Richard A. Friedman, The Atlantic, 29 July 2024

Amphetamines also increase the release of dopamine and norepinephrine from neurons. —Kate Harrington, The Conversation, 25 July 2024

Both medications work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to help improve ADHD symptoms. —T'keyah Bazin, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˈnȯ(ə)r-ˌep-ə-ˈnef-rən 

: a hormone that causes blood vessels to contract and helps to transmit nerve impulses in the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system

Medical Definition

norepinephrine

noun

nor·​epi·​neph·​rine ˌnȯr-ˌep-ə-ˈnef-rən  -rēn 

: a catecholamine C₈H₁₁NO₃ that is the chemical means of transmission across synapses in postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and in some parts of the central nervous system, is a vasopressor hormone of the adrenal medulla, and is a precursor of epinephrine in its major biosynthetic pathway

called also arterenol, noradrenaline

see levophed