Which hormone produced by the adrenal medulla increases blood pressure by vasoconstriction and raises peripheral resistance?

Which hormone produced by the adrenal medulla increases blood pressure by vasoconstriction and raises peripheral resistance?

• A. Aldosterone
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Cortisol
• D. Renin

Answer: (B)

Adrenal medulla hormones drive rapid sympathetic responses. Epinephrine, the key hormone produced there, increases blood pressure by constricting peripheral vessels through alpha-adrenergic receptors, raising systemic vascular resistance. It also enhances cardiac output by stimulating beta-1 receptors in the heart, increasing heart rate and contractility. The combination of higher resistance and greater output elevates blood pressure quickly during a stress response. The other options come from different sources or act through mechanisms not focused on vasoconstriction to raise peripheral resistance.

Adrenal medulla hormones drive rapid sympathetic responses. Epinephrine, the key hormone produced there, increases blood pressure by constricting peripheral vessels through alpha-adrenergic receptors, raising systemic vascular resistance. It also enhances cardiac output by stimulating beta-1 receptors in the heart, increasing heart rate and contractility. The combination of higher resistance and greater output elevates blood pressure quickly during a stress response. The other options come from different sources or act through mechanisms not focused on vasoconstriction to raise peripheral resistance.