Problem: I would educate my patient on what EPO is, how it's used, and its effects. Erythropoietin is a hormone made in the kidneys that helps regulate and maintain red blood cells in the body. The drug EPO is normally used for people with kidney disease, anemia, and medical conditions that involve red blood cell loss. Athletes use EPO to increase their blood cell mass. Which in turn brings more oxygen to the muscles. This enhances the performance of the muscle by increasing its stamina and performance. I would tell the patient that although it increases performance and stamina it is prohibited in sports and extremely looked down upon. It can have severe negative side effects such as heart disease, stroke, anemia, and cerebral or pulmonary embolism. Overall, it would not be a good idea to use EPO. Give a comment. Need Assignment Help?