Which pair of hormones is produced by the adrenal medulla and contributes to the fight-or-flight response?

• A. Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
• B. Insulin and Glucagon
• C. Cortisol and Aldosterone
• D. Prolactin and Oxytocin

Answer: (A)

The adrenal medulla releases hormones that trigger the rapid, systemic changes of the fight-or-flight response. Epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline) are the catecholamines produced there; they act quickly to increase heart rate and force of contraction, dilate airways, raise blood glucose, and redirect blood to muscles. This immediate hormonal surge amplifies sympathetic nervous system activity to prepare the body for quick action. Other adrenal hormones come from the cortex (like cortisol and aldosterone) or from other glands (such as insulin and glucagon from the pancreas, or prolactin and oxytocin from the pituitary), so they don’t constitute the adrenal medulla’s fight-or-flight pair. Therefore, epinephrine and norepinephrine are the hormones produced by the adrenal medulla that contribute to the fight-or-flight response.