Adrenal Glands: Understanding Antagonistic Functions - Medulla vs. Cortex

The two endocrine glands that have antagonistic functions are the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex. The adrenal medulla secretes epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline), which increase the heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. The adrenal cortex secretes cortisol and aldosterone, which decrease the heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.