Noradrenalin
Noradrenalin (also known as norepinephrine) is a hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla (an endocrine gland in the human body).
The effects of the hormone noradrenalin are similar to the effects of adrenalin - the other hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla.
The actions of noradrenalin include :
- Constriction of small blood vessels leading to increase in blood pressure.
- Increased blood flow through the coronary arteries and slowing of heart rate.
- Increase in rate and depth of breathing.
- Relaxation of the smooth muscle in the intestinal walls.
Increased amounts of both adrenalin and noradrenalin are secreted when the body is under stress.
See also: What is a Hormone ?
For further general information including the locations of the endocrine glands, see the Endocrine Glands of the Human Body.
More about the Endocrine System
- Introduction to the Endocrine System
- What is a hormone ?
- Water Soluble Hormones vs Fat Soluble Hormones
- Triggers for Hormone Release
- Hormone Regulation Feedback Mechanism
- Major Glands of the Endocrine System
- The Pituitary Gland
- The Adrenal Glands
- Non-endocrine tissues that release hormones
- Conditions of the Endocrine System
- Diabetes
