EPO Testing Methods

Erythropoietin, also known as EPO, is a hormone that regulates the production of red blood cells. EPO occurs naturally in the body, but since 1988 a synthetic variant has been:

“Used to stimulate erythrocyte production in patients with end-stage renal disease and anaemia.” (Wilber, R.L., 2002)

Known as recombinant human EPO (rhEPO, r-HuEpo), the synthesised hormone has been commercially available since medical treatments began in 1988. The ingestion of rhEPO has been used:

“as a pharmacological ergogenic aid for the enhancement of aerobic performance” and
“is estimated to be practised by at least 3 to 7% of elite endurance sport athletes.” (Wilber, R.L., 2002)


This means that since 1988, athletes have been able to gain the synthesised hormone and inject it, to produce extra red blood cells above a “normal” amount. This leads to an increased capacity for oxygen uptake and transport, giving the athlete an advantage over others in aerobic exercise. For this...