Delaware became the latest state to prohibit the possession or use of erythropoietin (EPO) when the Delaware Racing Commission voted to ban the substance on Monday.

The rule changes adopted at the public hearing included the prohibition of the possession or use of any substance for which there is no recognized analytical method and substances that are deemed harmful to the welfare of horses or are not approved by the Federal Drug Administration.

"Blood doping of horses is a serious abuse of these fine animals," said Bernard J. Daney, commission chairman. "The commission overviews the industry not only to protect the public and racing participants but the horses as well."