California bans EPO use

DEL MAR, Calif. - The California Horse Racing Board on Wednesday adopted a regulation banning the use or possession of the hormones Erythropoietin (EPO) and Darbepoietin at racetracks and other areas under the board's jurisdiction.

According to a statement issued by the CHRB, the use of either of the two drugs is on a list of prohibited veterinary practices.

A national regulation endorsed by the Association of Racing Commissioners International banning EPO or Darbepoietin has been approved or is under consideration in seven other states.

Synthetic versions of EPO, used to treat human anemia patients, are believed to have been used as performance-enhancers for both human athletes and racehorses.