ESA and EPO (Erythropoietin), benefits in bodybuilding and performance promote

Both erythropoietin (EPO) and Erythropoietin stimulating agent (ESA) benefit in bodybuilding and performance promote, particularly in endurance sports such as cycling, long-distance running and cross-country skiing. EPO and ESA can significantly improve the performance of bodybuilders by increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

How EPO and ESA work?

Erythropoietin

Natural function: Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis) in the bone marrow.

Synthetic erythropoietin: Synthetic forms of erythropoietin are used in medicine to treat anemia, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease. However, it is also used to promote performance.

Mechanism: By increasing the production of red blood cells, OIEtin increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. More oxygen in the muscles increases endurance and delays fatigue, allowing bodybuilders to maintain high-intensity efforts for longer periods of time.

ESA

Definition :ESA is a large class of drugs that stimulate red blood cell production, of which erythropoietin is one.

Type: In addition to OIEtin, ESA also includes dabestine α and methoxypolyethylene glycol – OIEtin β.

Uses: Similar to EPO, these drugs are used medically to treat anemia, but Bodybuilders use them to promote performance.

EPO AND ESA benefits in performance

Increased endurance: By increasing the number of red blood cells, EPO and ESA provide the amount of oxygen delivered to the muscles, thus enabling the user to continue high-intensity physical activity for a longer period of time without fatigue.

Enhanced recovery: Increasing the red blood cell count can promote repair and growth by improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissue, thus helping faster recovery during training. Can shorten the recovery time between sports or competitions.

Increase VO2 Max: EPO and ESA increase VO2 Max, which is the maximum oxygen consumption during vigorous exercise. A high VO2 Max is a key factor in endurance performance.

Lactate threshold delay: The lactate threshold, where lactic acid accumulates in the muscle faster than it is removed, can be delayed. This allows athletes to compete at a higher intensity without feeling muscle fatigue.

ESA vs EPO benefits

Both EOP and ESA benefits in performance promote, but the new ESA can bind to its own DNA and activate the erythropoietin gene to stimulate the secretion of endogenous erythropoietin, which cannot be detected by urine at present.

Side effects

While EPOs and ESAs can improve performance, their misuse carries significant health risks.

Increased blood viscosity

Too much red blood cell production thickens the blood, leading to an increased risk of clots, strokes and heart attacks.

Dehydration during strenuous exercise can exacerbate these risks.

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

An elevated red blood cell count raises blood pressure and puts stress on the cardiovascular system.

Other side effects

Increased risk of flu-like symptoms, joint and muscle pain, and a number of other things.