Erythropoietin is a glycoprotein hormone, and is also produced as a biomedicine. It is often referred to by a selection of different names, such as hemopoietin, hematopoietin, and erythropoetin. A short name for it is EPO. When the exogenous form is used as a performance enhancer, it is considered as an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent, or ESA for short.

The human body uses this material in a process called erythropoiesis, in which the production of red blood cells occurs. It is also used by the body in additional functions. As a cytokine, erythropoietin is secreted by cells in the immune system, and it can take a signal from a certain cell to another. Wound healing also involves this substance. The brain’s response to a neuronal injury, and also the regulation of red blood cell production, are other functions that also use it.

As a biomedicine, erythropoietin is produced by some companies in the medical or pharmaceutical industries. It is sold under different trade names depending upon which company is involved in the production. One of its medical uses is in treating individuals who have stage 5 chronic kidney disease (requiring dialysis). In such a case, EPO is given along with iron. It is also used at times for treatments involving other medical conditions. Please keep in mind that this information is not professional medical advice, and should not be used as a substitute for it. A medical professional involved in the case, looking at the circumstances, may be able to make a decision as to whether erythropoietin should be considered as a treatment option in that particular situation.