 Norepinephrine released by the locus coeruleus affects brain function in a number of ways . It enhances processing of sensory inputs , enhances attention , enhances formation and retrieval of both long term and working memory , and enhances the ability of the brain to respond to inputs by changing the activity pattern in the prefrontal cortex and other areas . The control of arousal level is strong enough that drug @-@ induced suppression of the LC has a powerful sedating effect . 
