Adrenaline is a hormone and neurotransmitter that helps the body respond rapidly to situations requiring increased alertness or physical action.
Adrenaline, also called epinephrine, is produced mainly by the adrenal glands and is released into the bloodstream during situations such as fear, excitement, physical exertion, or acute stress.
It can increase heart rate and the force of heart contractions, widen the airways, redirect blood flow toward muscles, and make stored energy more readily available. These effects help prepare the body for rapid action.
Adrenaline is also used as a medication in emergencies such as anaphylaxis.
QUICK FACT
Adrenaline acts both as a hormone when released into the bloodstream and as a neurotransmitter when released by certain nerve cells.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Cortisol: Both are involved in the stress response, but they act differently and have different time courses and functions.
- Noradrenaline (norepinephrine): a closely related catecholamine that also functions as a hormone and neurotransmitter but has different physiological roles.
SEE ALSO
- Cortisol
- Stress Response
- Stress Hormone
- Neurotransmitters
- Anaphylaxis
- Adrenal Glands