Epinephrine

Definition

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the body's fight-or-flight response. It is produced by the adrenal glands and affects various physiological functions including heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epinephrine increases glycogenolysis, leading to higher blood glucose levels.
2. It stimulates lipolysis, breaking down fats into free fatty acids for energy.
3. Epinephrine can cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation depending on the type of receptors present in different tissues.
4. It is used medically to treat severe allergic reactions through epinephrine auto-injectors like EpiPen.
5. Chronic stress can lead to prolonged epinephrine release, potentially impacting endocrine health and nutrition.

Review Questions

• What are the primary effects of epinephrine on blood glucose levels?
• How does epinephrine influence fat metabolism?
• In what medical situations might epinephrine be administered?

Related terms

Cortisol: A steroid hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress; it regulates metabolism and immune response.

Norepinephrine: A neurotransmitter closely related to epinephrine that primarily affects blood pressure by causing vasoconstriction.

Glycogenolysis: The process of breaking down glycogen into glucose, which is stimulated by hormones like epinephrine.