They are located on top of each kidney.

The adrenal cortex (outer region) and the adrenal medulla (inner region).

The adrenal cortex produces hormones vital to survival.

It produces:

1. Glucocorticoids like cortisol and corticosterone
2. Mineralocorticoids like aldosterone
3. Small amounts of androgens (male and female sex hormones) like testosterone

The adrenal medulla produces non-essential hormones that help the body react to stress.

It mainly produces:

1. Adrenaline
2. Noradrenaline

1. Helps to regulate metabolism by controlling how the body converts fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into energy
2. Helps to regulate blood pressure and cardiovascular function in response to stress
3. Works with corticosterone to regulate the immune response and supress inflammation

The release of glucocorticoids like cortisol is controlled by the hypothalamus.

Aldosterone helps control blood pressure by maintaining the balance between salt and water concentrations in the blood and body fluids.

Its release is mediated by signals triggered by the kidney.

1. Increases the heart rate
2. Increases blood flow to the muscles and brain
3. Increases blood glucose concentration
4. Increases breathing rate
5. Dilates bronchioles

Noradrenaline works with adrenaline in response to stress, producing effects such as:

1. Increased heart rate
2. Widening of pupils
3. Widening of air passages in the lungs
4. Narrowing of blood vessels in organs like the gut to reduce blood flow there

The hormones of the adrenal medulla are released when the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated, usually when the body is stressed.