EPO
Also known as Erythropoietin
Erythropoiesis stimulating glycoprotein hormone
The hormone that drives red blood cell production, studied in anemia and oxygen-transport research.
How it works
Binds EPO receptors on erythroid progenitors in the bone marrow, blocking apoptosis and driving their maturation into circulating red cells.
What research has shown
Renal anemia trials report reliable hemoglobin increases; the literature also documents thrombotic risk when hematocrit is driven too high.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
50 IU/kg three times weekly in clinical anemia protocols
Optimal
Target-driven, guided by hemoglobin response
High end
Higher exposures are associated with thrombotic and cardiovascular risk
Frequency reported in the literature: One to three times weekly in clinical literature. Note: Hematocrit monitoring is central to every published protocol.
Protocol duration and pairing
Typical study duration
2 to 12 weeks in anemia protocols.
Best paired with
Studied on its own. No established pairing appears in the literature.
Hematocrit endpoints require close monitoring, so it is not stacked in the literature.
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.