February 28, 2014 (Sochi, Russia) – Russians athletes did well at the Sochi Winter Games, but this might be partly explained by their inhaling xenon gas, which causes an increase in production of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO), according to BBC citing German broadcaster WDR.

Xenon gas is not specifically on the list of banned substances prepared by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), but it is against anti-doping rules to artificially increase the amount of EPO in the body by using pharmaceutical products. So-called “natural methods,” such as high altitude training or sleeping in a hypoxic tent are permitted, however. The use of xenon gas is in a grey area under WADA rules.

WADA president Craig Reedie has promised to address the issue of xenon gas use.

Russia won 33 medals at Sochi, including 13 gold. Norway finished second in the medal count with 26 medals (11 gold) while Canada was third with 25 medals (10 gold).

Read the BBC article here.