epinephrin
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A hormone and neurotransmitter: Epinephrin is a catecholamine hormone and neurotransmitter secreted primarily by the adrenal medulla. It is a key component of the body's "fight-or-flight" response to stress, danger, or excitement.
- A physiological stimulant: It acts on various organs to prepare the body for rapid action, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to muscles.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The doctor administered a shot of epinephrin to counteract the severe allergic reaction.
- During the emergency, her body released large amounts of epinephrin, heightening her senses and strength.
Advanced Usage
- "Epinephrin surge/rush": A sudden, large release of the hormone.
- He felt an epinephrin rush as he stepped onto the stage to give his speech.
- "Epinephrin auto-injector": A medical device (like an EpiPen) designed for self-administration of the hormone in emergency situations.
- People with severe allergies should always carry an epinephrin auto-injector.
Variants and Related Words
- Epinephrine (n): The more common international nonproprietary name (INN) for the same substance. "Epinephrin" and "epinephrine" are used interchangeably.
- Adrenaline (n): The British English and common trade name for epinephrin. This term is widely used in informal contexts.
- The thrill-seeker was addicted to the adrenaline rush.
Synonyms
- Adrenaline: The common synonym, especially outside of formal medical contexts.
- Catecholamine: A class of molecules to which epinephrin belongs, though this is a broader category.
Related Phrases
- "Fight-or-flight response": The physiological reaction triggered by the release of epinephrin and other hormones.
- The loud noise triggered his fight-or-flight response, flooding his system with epinephrin.
Noun
- a catecholamine secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to stress (trade name Adrenalin); stimulates autonomic nerve action