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Substances: Aranesp (darepoiten alfa)

Aranesp (also known as NESP) is the trademark name for the novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein, darbepoiten alfa. This protein stimulates red blood cell (RBC) production by the same mechanism as human erythropoietin (EPO). An increase in RBCs improves the amount of oxygen the blood can carry to the body's muscles. It may also increase the body's capacity to buffer lactic acid. Aranesp has legitimate clinical use in the treatment of anaemia in patients with diseases such as kidney disease, HIV and some cancers.

Aranesp has a three fold longer half-life in the blood than EPO. This does not mean it is more powerful, but rather it stays in the blood longer. Athletes may feel that this is an advantage over EPO, as they would need to inject less frequently and at a lesser quantity. However staying in the blood longer also gives greater opportunity for the substance to be detected.

Side effects

Aranesp has similar side effects to EPO use. This includes causing the blood to thicken excessively. The heart has to work harder to pump the thicker blood and the blood is more prone to clot. Aranesp could increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and clots in the lung. This risk is exacerbated by dehydration, which often occurs during endurance exercise.

Status in Sport

Aranesp is prohibited both in competition and out of competition as a method of enhancement of oxygen transfer under World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (effective from 01/01/07).

 

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