Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) regimen enhances maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), but the effect of micro-doses on maximal and submaximal performance is not clear and detection of micro-doses is difficult with current methods. This study investigated whether micro-doses of rHuEPO enhances maximal and endurance performance in males and females.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, 48 trained adults (24 females, 24 males) receive either recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO; epoetin-β, 9 IU/kg, n = 24, (12 females, 12 males)) or placebo (0,9% NaCl, n = 24, (12 females, 12 males)) three times per week for four weeks. Before the intervention, time trial performance and maximal oxygen uptake will be assessed. Three and five days after the last injection, time trial performance and maximal oxygen uptake will be determined to assess the effect of the rHuEPO administration. In addition, total hemoglobin mass and intravascular volumes will be determined via the carbon monoxide rebreathing method in duplicate measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Relative maximum oxygen uptake (VO2-max) of at least 50 ml O2/min/kg for male participants and 45 ml O2/min/kg for female participants

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age
• Insufficient fitness level
• Blood donation 3 months prior to enrollment
• Altitude exposure 2 months before enrollment
• Hypertension

Fully anonymous data can be shared with other researchers.

An algorithm was created using randomizer.org