Paramedic National Registry Practice

What neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the sympathetic nervous system?

1. Dopamine

2. Norepinephrine

3. Acetylcholine

4. Serotonin

The correct answer is: Norepinephrine

The primary neurotransmitter associated with the sympathetic nervous system is norepinephrine. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in the "fight or flight" response, which is activated during stressful situations. When the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated, norepinephrine is released from the postganglionic neurons, leading to various physiological effects such as increased heart rate, enhanced blood flow to muscles, and the release of glucose for energy. These actions prepare the body to respond to a perceived threat or to engage in physical activity. While other neurotransmitters listed, like dopamine and acetylcholine, have important functions in the nervous system, they are not the primary ones related to sympathetic activation. Acetylcholine, for example, is primarily associated with the parasympathetic nervous system, facilitating functions such as rest and digestion, rather than the heightened state of alertness characteristic of the sympathetic response. Similarly, serotonin is mainly involved in mood regulation and does not play a direct role in the sympathetic nervous system's responses. Understanding the role of norepinephrine is essential for recognizing how the body prepares itself to react in various situations.