Erythropoietin
EPO helps to improve endurance by increasing amount of red blood cells. Used mainly in endurance sports.
Erythropoietin alfa is a glycoprotein hormone, more precisely a cytokine, the main regulator of erythropoiesis, which stimulates the formation of erythrocytes from late progenitor cells and increases the release of reticulocytes from the bone marrow, depending on oxygen consumption. EPO is a purified glycoprotein. Biological and immunological properties are identical to human erythropoietin excreted from urine. The synthesis of endogenous erythropoietin is carried out in the kidneys and depends on the level of blood oxygenation.
The usage of Erythropoietin alfa leads to an increase in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels in the blood, improved blood supply to tissues, and heart function. It increases the number of red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to the bloodstream, thereby increasing muscle and cardiovascular endurance, increasing energy levels and even enhancing protein synthesis. It is because of this that this drug is popular in sport and is often used by bodybuilders and athletes. This process is often referred to as blood doping.
EРО is an extremely active hormone that acts in the body in picomolar concentrations. Small fluctuations in its concentration in the blood lead to significant changes in the rate of erythropoiesis. And in the human body, the number of erythrocytes must be constantly updated. You can buy Erythropoietin in a pharmacy or make an online order without any trouble.
Benefits and Effects of EPO:
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An increase in the number of erythrocytes under the influence of erythropoietin leads to an increase in the oxygen content per unit volume of blood and, accordingly, to an increase in the oxygen capacity of the blood and the delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Ultimately, the body's endurance increases. Thus, the oxygen transport function of hemoglobin is improved, which is the main purpose of the use of EPO as doping.
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Due to the action of erythropoietin on the oxygen capacity and the transfer of oxygen to tissues, this substance causes an increase in performance in sports with a predominant manifestation of aerobic endurance. These sports disciplines include all types of track and field running, as well as all types of cross-country skiing and cycling. Besides, recently in bodybuilding publications, information has begun to appear that EPO can replace the massive use of anabolic steroids.
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Erythropoietin preparations are well-tolerated pharmacological agents that have practically no side effects. However, EPO overdose and uncontrolled use can lead to an increase in blood viscosity and, therefore, to an increased risk of circulatory disorders. Therefore, you must always monitor the state of your body and be sure to consult a doctor before using the drug.
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This drug is also used to treat anemia associated with chronic renal failure in adults, in cancer patients (receiving or not receiving chemotherapy), in children on hemodialysis.
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During intensive training sessions and professional sports, you constantly need to conduct a hematological analysis to determine the number of erythrocytes, their parameters (volume, hemoglobin saturation), hemoglobin level, and hematocrit. The hematocrit should not exceed 50% - this leads to the thickening of the blood, which the microcirculation of blood in the muscles and internal organs worsens, which increases the risk of thrombosis. Besides, complete control of iron metabolism (total and unsaturated iron-binding capacity, percentage of iron saturation) and determination of the level of folic acid and vitamin B12 in the blood is required. All these tests are necessary for correct erythropoiesis, their deficiency should not be allowed during the period of sports activities.
Administration
This drug is taken intravenously or subcutaneously, the frequency of administration and the duration of use is set individually.
The dosage of Epoetin alfa will vary depending on what you are taking it for. The standard dosage is usually from 50 to 100 units per kilogram of body weight in a therapeutic goal. This dose should be repeated 3 times a week.
For athletes and bodybuilders, the dosage will be different, as they need to start with small doses: from about 5-10 units per kilogram of body weight. It should also be repeated three times a week for two weeks. Be sure to consult your doctor before using EPO. Continue using this drug as directed by your doctor even if you feel well.
Epoetin alfa should not be mixed with solutions of other medicinal substances.
Side Effects
If you use the drug wisely and with a doctor's prescription, then there is practically no risk of side effects. But if you do something wrong, you may have:
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Irritation at the injection place
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High temperature
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Headache
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Nausea or vomiting
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Cough
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Bone, joint, or muscle pain
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Muscle spasm
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Irritation or pain in the mouth
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Weight loss
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Sleep disturbances
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Signs of a cold
If you think there has been a drug overdose, call a Poison Control Center immediately and seek medical attention.
During the treatment period, you should be careful when driving vehicles or engaging in other hazardous activities that require increased concentration.