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Drugs in Sport

EPO, anabolic steroids and beta blockers

  • 3 things to know
  • Paper 2

Overview

EPO, anabolic steroids and beta blockers, how each improves performance, who uses them, and their physical and psychological side effects.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

What is erythropoietin (EPO)?

Key term

How does taking EPO improve performance?

Key term

Which performers are most likely to use EPO, and why?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What is erythropoietin (EPO)?

    Model answer

    EPO is a hormone produced naturally by the kidneys. EPO stimulates the production of red blood cells.

  2. 2

    How does taking EPO improve performance?

    Model answer

    Extra red blood cells increase haemoglobin and the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. VO₂ max rises, so the athlete can work harder for longer.

  3. 3

    Which performers are most likely to use EPO, and why?

    Model answer

    Endurance athletes such as cyclists and distance runners are the likeliest users. Events such as the Tour de France depend heavily on oxygen delivery to the muscles.

  4. 4

    What are the health risks of EPO?

    Model answer

    EPO thickens the blood by increasing its viscosity. Thicker blood raises the risk of clots, heart attack and stroke.

  5. 5

    Why is EPO more dangerous when an athlete is dehydrated?

    Model answer

    Dehydration reduces plasma volume, making the blood even thicker. The heart must work harder, and clotting becomes more likely.

  6. 6

    What are anabolic steroids?

    Model answer

    Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the male hormone testosterone. Anabolic steroids promote muscle growth.

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