Norepinephrine, structural components

Two synonyms, two definitions, and an expression of admiration. The word norepinephrine is synonymous with noradrenalin, and the word epinephrine is synonymous with adrenalin. The distinctions are that the first in each case is American and the second British. And the term chiral indicates a potential asymmetry in a molecule that would allow eventual separation into two optical isomers. The term racemic refers to a mixture of these two isomers which has not yet been separated into the individual components. A racemic mixture is called a racemate and, from the point of view of the human animal (which is completely asymmetric), must be considered as a mixture of two structurally identical but... 

Figure. 2—4. The two major components of the ANS. The parasympathetic neurons release acetylcholine the sympathetic neurons release norepinephrine. These two systems provide a balance of control of the function of the organs and structures...

Compounds structurally related to the endogenous sympathomimetic amines epinephrine and norepinephrine have classically been employed as appetite suppressants. These agents, of which amphetamine [300-62-9], C9H13N, is the prototypical example, generally retain the phenethylamine, but lack the catechol moiety present in the natural substances. As a consequence, they are well absorbed after oral administration and readily distribute into the central nervous system where they exert their anorectic effects at hypothalamic appetite control centers. A component of their efficacy in promoting weight... 

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