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Norepinephrine

Meaning

Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, functions both as a critical neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and as a major hormone released by the adrenal medulla. Its primary physiological role involves mediating the body’s acute stress response, often termed the “fight or flight” reaction, by increasing heart rate and diverting blood flow to skeletal muscles. This catecholamine is central to maintaining vigilance, arousal, and immediate physiological preparedness. Clinically, its levels reflect the current activation status of the Sympathetic Nervous System.