Health Benefits
EPO may have anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities. EPO appears to be effective in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been found to be indicated in some other inflammatory disorders, such as Sjogren's syndrome and ulcerative colitis. Diabetic neuropathy, osteoporosis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), hypertension and elevated serum lipids appear to be some other uses.
EPO has been used with some preliminary success in some cancers, principally cerebral gliomas. It has not proved useful for tardive dyskinesia, premenstrual syndrome or menopausal flushing. It may be indicated in some cases for atopic dermatitis, particularly to help with itching, as well as for uremic skin conditions in hemodialysis patients. It should probably not be used in efforts to enhance immunity as it may be immunosuppressive. EPO is approved in the United Kingdom as a pharmaceutical treatment for atopic dermatitis and mastalgia.
