Difference Wiki

Adrenergic vs. Cholinergic: What's the Difference?

Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on October 25, 2023
Adrenergic pertains to adrenaline and its effects; Cholinergic relates to acetylcholine and its actions.

Key Differences

Adrenergic and Cholinergic are terms that describe the actions, receptors, and pathways of two distinct neurotransmitters: adrenaline (and noradrenaline) and acetylcholine, respectively. These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in the body's physiological functions.
Adrenergic systems, often associated with the "fight or flight" response, are activated by the neurotransmitters adrenaline and noradrenaline. The release of these neurotransmitters results in increased heart rate, pupil dilation, and other related responses.
In contrast, the Cholinergic systems are mainly related to the "rest and digest" response. They involve the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The release of acetylcholine typically results in decreased heart rate, stimulation of digestive processes, and pupil constriction.
While Adrenergic receptors, like alpha and beta receptors, respond to adrenaline and noradrenaline, Cholinergic receptors, like muscarinic and nicotinic receptors, are specifically activated by acetylcholine.
To sum it up, while both Adrenergic and Cholinergic pathways play essential roles in bodily functions, Adrenergic pathways often prepare the body for action, and Cholinergic pathways are more associated with relaxation and digestion.
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Associated Neurotransmitters

Adrenaline, Noradrenaline
Acetylcholine

Primary Response Type

"Fight or Flight"
"Rest and Digest"

Receptor Types

Alpha, Beta
Muscarinic, Nicotinic

Typical Effects

Increased heart rate, pupil dilation
Decreased heart rate, digestive stimulation, pupil constriction

Role in Body

Prepares body for action
Associated with relaxation and digestion
ADVERTISEMENT

Adrenergic and Cholinergic Definitions

Adrenergic

Adrenergic pathways influence heart rate and blood pressure.
Adrenergic drugs can elevate blood pressure by stimulating these pathways.

Cholinergic

Cholinergic is associated with the "rest and digest" function.
Cholinergic activity promotes digestion after a meal.

Adrenergic

Adrenergic denotes receptors targeted by adrenaline.
Beta-blockers inhibit specific adrenergic receptors.

Cholinergic

Cholinergic refers to nerve cells releasing acetylcholine.
The parasympathetic nervous system has cholinergic neurons.

Adrenergic

Adrenergic refers to nerves releasing noradrenaline or adrenaline.
The sympathetic nervous system contains adrenergic neurons.

Cholinergic

Cholinergic systems play roles in memory and learning.
Dysfunction in cholinergic pathways is linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Adrenergic

Adrenergic is associated with the "fight or flight" response.
In stress, adrenergic activity increases preparing the body to react.

Cholinergic

Cholinergic pertains to the actions of acetylcholine.
Cholinergic pathways help regulate heart rhythm.

Adrenergic

Activated by or capable of releasing epinephrine or a similar substance, especially in the sympathetic nervous system
Adrenergic receptors.

Cholinergic

Cholinergic denotes receptors activated by acetylcholine.
Muscarinic receptors are a type of cholinergic receptor.

Adrenergic

Having physiological effects similar to those of epinephrine
An adrenergic amine.

Cholinergic

Activated by or capable of liberating acetylcholine, especially in the parasympathetic nervous system.

Adrenergic

Having the quality of adrenaline or epinephrine.

Cholinergic

Having physiological effects similar to those of acetylcholine
A cholinergic agent or drug.

Adrenergic

Containing or releasing adrenaline.

Cholinergic

(biochemistry) Of, pertaining to, activated by, producing or having the same function as acetylcholine.

Adrenergic

Activated by an adrenal mechanism

Cholinergic

(biochemistry) Any drug or substance producing or having the same function as acetylcholine.

Adrenergic

Any adrenergic compound

Cholinergic

Releasing or activated by acetylcholine or a related compound

Adrenergic

Producing or activated by epinephrine or adrenaline

Adrenergic

Drug that has the effects of epinephrine

Adrenergic

Relating to epinephrine (its release or action)

Adrenergic

Adrenergic relates to the actions of adrenaline.
The patient's adrenergic response caused a rapid heartbeat.

FAQs

Are beta receptors Adrenergic or Cholinergic?

Beta receptors are Adrenergic.

Can Adrenergic activity affect blood pressure?

Yes, increased adrenergic activity can elevate blood pressure.

Which system is more involved in memory, Adrenergic or Cholinergic?

The Cholinergic system plays a more significant role in memory functions.

What neurotransmitter is associated with Adrenergic systems?

Adrenergic systems are associated with adrenaline and noradrenaline.

What primary response is Cholinergic related to?

Cholinergic is primarily related to the "rest and digest" response.

What are common Cholinergic receptors?

Muscarinic and nicotinic receptors are common cholinergic receptors.

What happens during an Adrenergic response?

An Adrenergic response typically prepares the body for action, causing effects like increased heart rate.

What role does acetylcholine play in the Cholinergic system?

Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter in the Cholinergic system.

Are Adrenergic receptors found in the heart?

Yes, Adrenergic receptors, especially beta receptors, are found in the heart.

Are there drugs that target Cholinergic receptors?

Yes, drugs like anticholinergics and cholinesterase inhibitors target Cholinergic receptors.
About Author
Written by
Janet White
Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon Moss
Harlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.

Trending Comparisons

Popular Comparisons

New Comparisons