EPO

By John Johnston2009-09-01T11:56:00

A professional cyclist before a dark sky

Source: Dmytro Aksonov/iStock

John Johnston investigates this oft abused hormone

Erythropoietin (EPO) is one of several natural hormones that scientists have been able to isolate, synthesise and use as a medicine. However, EPO has also been shrouded in controversy because of its abuse by athletes. Although synthetic EPO is used to improve the quality of life for many people with serious illnesses, the drug also has a dark side. Endurance athletes such as cyclists, runners and cross-country skiers have used EPO as a performance-enhancing drug.

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