Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preparing an enhanced water composition having increased oxygen solubility, and methods for employing the composition to enhance oxygen absorption in tissues for enhancing athletic performance and treating the symptoms of disease are provided herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of therapeutically, or prophylactically, treating a vertebrate to increase tissue oxygenation, or maintain issue oxygenation, in tissue of a vertebrate wherein the tissue has a reduced red blood cell flow, and wherein the vertebrate has a normovolemic blood volume and at least a normal systemic vascular resistance. The method comprises introducing into the circulatory system of the vertebrate at least one dose of hemoglobin.

Abstract: A method of treatment of a patient includes administering to the patient stored red blood cells and a hemoglobin solution. The stored red blood cells and the hemoglobin solution can be administered to the patient simultaneously. Alternatively, the hemoglobin solution can be administered to the patient prior to administrating the stored red blood cells or the stored red blood cells can be administered to the patient prior to administering the hemoglobin solution. A composition of the invention includes stored red blood cells and a hemoglobin solution.

Abstract: At least one dose of polymerized hemoglobin is administered a vertebrate to increase tissue oxygenation, or maintain issue oxygenation, in an organ of a vertebrate wherein the organ has a reduced red blood cell flow, and wherein the vertebrate has a normovolemic blood volume and at least a normal systemic vascular resistance. The hemoglobin increases function of the organ.