DefinitionCatecholamines are hormones produced by the adrenal glands, which are found on top of the kidneys. They are released into the blood during times of physical or emotional stress. The major catecholamines are dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (which used to be called adrenalin).This article discusses the test to check the level of catecholamines in a sample of blood.Catecholamines are more often measured with a urine test than with a blood test. See: Catecholamines - urineAlternative NamesNorepinephrine - blood; Epinephrine - blood; Adrenalin - blood; Dopamine - bloodHow the test is performedBlood is typically drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider