Hi all, I'm a 190 lbs, older than 40, amateur runner/fighter looking to improve. Hoping some with EPO experience can answer some questions. I've done a lot of research and I'm well prepared, purchased a small spinner to test my HCT and I'm on my way.

I've acquired 30,000iu but I have another 60,000 on the way after realizing 30 is just barely enough to load.

My HCT at start was 44 and it's still 44, although I've only taken 9000iu thus far. Started with 1500iu, then a second 1500iu two days later. Did some more reading and decided to bump to 3000iu, then another 3000iu two days later again. This is still in the conservative zone for my weight and that's where I'm at now. I'll do 3000iu EOD for the next two weeks then back off to 3000 once a week to maintain.

I'm taking Aspirin 81mg x 3day, folic acid 400mg x 2day, Iron 30mg x 3day, Vit C 1000mg x 2day, and Vit B12 1000mcg x 2day. I already take fish oils and Vit E every day.

Questions:

• I didn't check my ferritin. How much Iron should I be taking? Is 90mg a day too much?

• Is 3000iu EOD for three weeks enough to load? If my dose is smaller is it ok to extend the load period longer? It seems like the duration of the load period is related to HCT numbers. If I'm still around mid 40s after 3 weeks can I load for another week? Or is there some other element aside from HCT that suggests stopping loading doses at 3 weeks is the correct protocol?

• How long until I can expect to see my HCT read higher?

• I've read about people loading to get to ~51-54 and then dosing to stay at that level long term. Ellis T follows this protocol and I've read several athletes mention it but no clarity on doses or supps to maintain. Any insight? I'd like to peak at around 50 HCT and keep it there for the next 3 months, give or take.

Thanks for any tips or insight, really appreciate it.