Adrenal Gland:
Hormones produced by Adrenal Glands
The different parts of adrenal glands secrete different kinds of
hormones. For example- Hormones secreted by adrenal cortex are called
Corticosteroids & adrenal medulla secretes Catecholamines. Corticosteroids
include Glucocorticoids, Mineralocorticoids & Adrenal sex steroids.
Catecholamines include Epinephrine, Norepinephrine & Dopamine. The
important hormones are briefly discussed below-
👁 Glucocorticoids: It
includes cortisol & corticosterone. These hormones have effects on glucose
& protein metabolism.
👁 Mineralocorticoids: The
main mineralocorticoid is Aldosterone. It helps in regulating the balance of
sodium & Extracellular Fluid volume in the body.
👁 Epinephrine: It
is also known as adrenaline. This is the hormone we refer to when we talk about
the excitement we get on a roller coaster ride or watching a horror movie. This
hormone immediately responds to any kind of stress. As it releases, the heart
rate goes up and the glucose level increases in the body.
👁 Nor-epinephrine: These
are also called noradrenaline. It
helps us in dangerous situations as it makes the brain and body take immediate
action. It is the highest when we are fully awake and the lowest when we are
sleeping. When you can’t sleep at night due to some worry, you can blame it on
this hormone.
👁 Dopamine: It
is a naturally occurring precursor of norepinephrine. Dopamine is the hormone
that is responsible for the feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, &
motivation.