HOSA Pathophysiology Endocrine Practice Test

The hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to stress is epinephrine. The adrenal medulla is part of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. In stressful situations, the body activates the "fight or flight" response, which is mediated by the release of epinephrine (also known as adrenaline).

Epinephrine plays a critical role in preparing the body to respond to stressors by increasing heart rate, improving blood flow to muscles, and facilitating the release of energy stores for immediate use. This rapid release of epinephrine enables the body to react quickly to potential threats or challenges.

While norepinephrine is also released by the adrenal medulla and plays a role in the stress response, epinephrine is more closely associated with the immediate and acute response to stress. Cortisol, on the other hand, is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex and is involved in the longer-term response to stress, including metabolic regulation and maintaining homeostasis. Glucagon, which is produced by the pancreas, is associated with glucose metabolism rather than the acute stress response. Therefore, epinephrine is the primary hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla specifically in response to stress.