Hormones and Their Functions in the Endocrine System

Oxytocin

Released from the posterior pituitary. Increases uterine contractions; stimulates milk ejection

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Released from the posterior pituitary. Regulates water balance by reducing urine production

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Released from the anterior pituitary. Stimulates follicle maturation in ovaries

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Released from the anterior pituitary. Triggers ovulation in females

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Released from the anterior pituitary. Stimulates thyroid to release hormones

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Released from the anterior pituitary. Stimulates adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids

Growth Hormone (GH)

Released from the anterior pituitary. Stimulates cell growth, muscle mass, and energy use

Thyroxine (T4)

Released from the thyroid. Regulates metabolism

Triiodothyronine (T3)

Released from the thyroid. Regulates metabolism

Calcitonin

Released from the thyroid. Lowers blood calcium levels

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Released from parathyroid glands. Raises blood calcium levels

Epinephrine

Released from adrenal medulla. Increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy use

Norepinephrine

Released from adrenal medulla. Same as epinephrine

Aldosterone

Released from the adrenal cortex. Regulates sodium and potassium ion levels

Cortisol

Released from the adrenal cortex. Anti-inflammatory

Hydrocortisone

Released from the adrenal cortex. Anti-inflammatory

Glucagon

Released from the pancreas. Increases blood sugar levels

Insulin

Released from the pancreas. Decreases blood sugar levels

Estrogen

Released from the ovaries. Prepares uterine lining for implantation

Progesterone

Released from the ovaries. Maintains pregnancy

Testosterone

Released from testes. Stimulates sperm production