Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal glands, which are located above each kidney. It secretes important hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) in response to stress.
Related terms
Adrenal glands: These are endocrine glands located above the kidneys that produce a variety of hormones including adrenaline and cortisol.
Epinephrine (Adrenaline): A hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla that increases heart rate, muscle strength, blood pressure, and sugar metabolism in response to stress.
Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline): A hormone produced by the adrenal medulla that plays a key role in increasing blood pressure and heart rate when under stress