Abstract:

Norepinephrine (NE; also known as noradrenaline) is the body’s primary adrenergic neurotransmitter which belongs to the catecholamine family. Norepinephrine has pharmacologic effects on the α1, α2, β1, β2 and β3 adrenoceptors. In the brain, norepinephrine increases arousal and alertness, promotes vigilance, enhances formation and retrieval of memory, and focuses attention. It also increases restlessness and anxiety. In the remainder of the body, norepinephrine increases heart rate and blood pressure, triggers the release of glucose from energy stores, increases blood flow to skeletal muscle and increases muscle contraction, reduces blood flow to the gastrointestinal system and its motility and lastly, inhibits voiding of the bladder. This last point is particularly interesting in the context of this perspective piece.