Noradrenalines

Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is a naturally occurring chemical that functions as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter in the body. It plays a crucial role in the body's "fight-or-flight" response, preparing the body for action by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose release from the liver.

As a neurotransmitter, noradrenaline is produced in the brain and transmits signals between nerve cells. It influences various functions including attention, alertness, arousal, and mood. Low levels of noradrenaline have been linked to conditions like depression and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Conversely, excessively high levels can contribute to anxiety and stress-related disorders.

Noradrenaline is synthesized from dopamine and is part of the catecholamine family. It acts on adrenergic receptors located throughout the body, including in the heart, blood vessels, and brain. These receptors mediate a wide range of physiological effects.

Medications that affect noradrenaline levels are used to treat several medical conditions. For example, some antidepressants work by increasing noradrenaline availability in the brain, while certain blood pressure medications block its effects on blood vessels. Understanding noradrenaline's multifaceted roles is essential for comprehending both normal physiological processes and the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric disorders.