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

This reaction can continue, helping to produce norepinephrine as well. —Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 31 Jan. 2025

This oscillatory norepinephrine release proved crucial to the operation of the glymphatic system. —Ars Technica, 20 Jan. 2025

The team focused on the relationship between norepinephrine and blood flow during deep sleep. —Maureen MacKey, Fox News, 11 Jan. 2025

According to the study, the correlation between the release of norepinephrine and changes in brain blood volume was stronger during the restful non-REM sleep than during the more active REM sleep or waking hours. —Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Jan. 2025

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