Epoetin recombinant, contained in néorecormon in beta éopoétine, has the same properties as erythropoietin, is a glycoprotein normally secreted by the kidneys and that stimulates the growth and maturation of young red blood cells.

The secretion of erythropoietin is usually reduced when the patient has renal failure.

Substance obtained by genetic recombination occurs as follows. The human gene is isolated and cloned in cells of mammals that produce, in vitro, the active substance. This substance with a half-life of four to eight hours.

Given that this polypeptide hormone primarily has the action to accelerate the production and maturation of red blood cells, this substance has been used manner by some athletes to doping purposes. It allows among others a substantial improvement in their aerobic potential (transport increased oxygen in the blood). Indeed the increase of 2 g per decilitre of blood hemoglobin will improve the capacity of the physical exercise of about 20%. However, side effects of erythropoietin, used in an abusive manner, result in the appearance of very important i.e. intravascular embolism risk of blood clots which evolution is sometimes fatal due to the significant rise of hematocrit. Hematocrit is the percentage of blood volume to total blood volume.

Epoetin is indicated for dialyzed chronic renal failure anaemia or awaiting dialysis. According to some specialists in hematology must be a hematocrit below 30% or even a haemoglobin