Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress. It is part of the catecholamine family, which also includes dopamine and epinephrine. Norepinephrine is produced in the adrenal medulla and the nervous system, and it functions by binding to alpha and beta adrenergic receptors to exert its effects.