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

TCAs, like amitriptyline (Elavil), are primarily used to treat depression but also work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and spinal cord. —New Atlas, 22 Apr. 2025

These results suggest that sleeping aids that impact norepinephrine production—which includes most sleeping aids—might harm the brain’s waste-removal system. —Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Jan. 2025

Neurotransmitters like oxytocin, dopamine and norepinephrine are all released, each of which contribute to the feeling of attachment and reward. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025

The medications work by amplifying the activity of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the nerve cells of the brain. —Christina Caron, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for norepinephrine

• epinephrine

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