... into the athlete shortly before competition. Anabolic steroids may be used by athletes, particularly female athletes, to artificially increase hematocrit. The latest method to increase hematocrit is by injecting the drug recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO). Medical Indications For Erythropoeitin Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys. This naturally occurring human hormone stimulates production of red blood cells. Individuals with kidney disease cannot produce enough erythropoietin which often results in anemia. A synthetic form of erythropoietin has been developed using recombinant DNA technology. The drug, rEPO, is used to treat patients with anemia caused by kidney failure. By replacing the hormone that their body cannot adequately produce, the need for frequent transfusions is eliminated. Endurance Athletes and rEPO Athletes looking for improved endurance have begun using rEPO. The extent to which athletes are using rEPO is unknown, however anecdotal reports suggest widespread use among amateur and professional athletes competing in endurance running and cycling ...

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