What is a potential adverse outcome of using epoetin alfa (Epogen) for endurance enhancement?

What is a potential adverse outcome of using epoetin alfa (Epogen) for endurance enhancement?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Psychotic episodes
• C. Cerebrovascular accident
• D. Respiratory distress

Answer: (C)

Using epoetin alfa (Epogen) for endurance enhancement can increase the risk of a cerebrovascular accident, commonly known as a stroke. Epoetin alfa stimulates the production of red blood cells, which can lead to an increased hemoglobin level in the blood. This elevation can cause hyperviscosity (thicker blood), which may result in reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain. As a consequence, the incidence of blood clots or reduced perfusion can rise, leading to a higher risk of cerebrovascular events, including strokes. This concern is particularly relevant in athletic populations who might misuse the drug to boost endurance because the practice can elevate blood viscosity to unsafe levels, significantly increasing the likelihood of arterial blockages and subsequent strokes. Understanding this potential risk emphasizes the importance of using epoetin alfa strictly for its approved indications and under medical supervision to minimize adverse effects related to safety.

Using epoetin alfa (Epogen) for endurance enhancement can increase the risk of a cerebrovascular accident, commonly known as a stroke. Epoetin alfa stimulates the production of red blood cells, which can lead to an increased hemoglobin level in the blood. This elevation can cause hyperviscosity (thicker blood), which may result in reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain. As a consequence, the incidence of blood clots or reduced perfusion can rise, leading to a higher risk of cerebrovascular events, including strokes.

This concern is particularly relevant in athletic populations who might misuse the drug to boost endurance because the practice can elevate blood viscosity to unsafe levels, significantly increasing the likelihood of arterial blockages and subsequent strokes. Understanding this potential risk emphasizes the importance of using epoetin alfa strictly for its approved indications and under medical supervision to minimize adverse effects related to safety.