| Active substance |
Epoetin Alfa (Erythropoietin) |
| Also known as |
EPO |
| Blood pressure |
Can cause an increase in blood pressure |
| Chemical name |
Erythropoietin |
| Dosage (medical) |
Typically 50-300 units/kg three times a week, dose adjusted based on hemoglobin levels and patient response |
| Dosage (sports) |
Misuse can involve 20-50 IU/kg of body weight, three times per week |
| Effects |
Increases red blood cell count, enhances oxygen transport and aerobic capacity |
| Formula |
Not applicable as it is a glycoprotein |
| Half-life |
Varies, typically 4-13 hours depending on the type (recombinant forms) |
| Hepatotoxicity |
None reported |
| Lab Test |
Detection via specific blood tests (e.g., EPO doping test, isoelectric focusing) |
| Main action |
Stimulates erythropoiesis (production of red blood cells) |
| Side effects |
Hypertension, thrombosis, increased risk of stroke, headache, flu-like symptoms |
| Storage conditions |
Refrigerated, typically between 2-8В°C |
| Substance class |
Hormone, specifically a growth factor |
| Trade name |
Epogen, Procrit, Eprex, others |
| Use in sports |
Banned - used to increase endurance and performance |
| Water Retention |
Minimal |
| Manufacturer |
Janssen-Cilag |
| Packing |
1 pack (6 Prefilled Syringes (2000iu/0.5ml)) |
