Which adrenal gland region secretes catecholamines?

• A. Adrenal Cortex
• B. Adrenal Zona Fasciculata
• C. Adrenal Medulla
• D. Adrenal Glomerulosa

Answer: (C)

Catecholamines are secreted by the adrenal medulla. The medulla, the inner part of the gland, contains chromaffin cells that release epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream in response to sympathetic stimulation. This quick release drives the fight-or-flight response—raising heart rate and contractility, constricting certain blood vessels to elevate blood pressure, widening airways, and promoting glucose release for immediate energy. In contrast, the adrenal cortex is organized into zones that produce steroids: aldosterone from the zona glomerulosa, cortisol from the zona fasciculata, and androgens from the zona reticularis. Thus, catecholamines come from the adrenal medulla.