Ocrevus or ocrelizumab is a new drug for treating primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) and relapsing MS. It is the first therapy for treating primary progressive MS approved by the FDA.
What Is Ocrevus?
Ocrevus is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the molecule CD20 on the surface of immune cells (B cells). B cells may play a role in the immune system-mediated damage to the brain and spinal cord tissues that occur in MS. The binding of B cells caused by ocrelizumab helps to reduce the number of B cells circulating through the bloodstream, which may help to mediate MS.
How Is Ocrevus Taken?
Ocrevus is administered via intravenous infusions every six months. The first dose is given in two infusions that are two weeks apart. All subsequent doses are given as a single infusion.
In primary progressive MS, Ocrevus was shown to reduce the risk of progression of clinical disability by 24%. The drug also reduced the time required to walk 25 feet by 29%, as well as the volume of brain lesions.
In relapsing MS, Ocrevus was shown to reduce the annualized relapse rate by up to 47%. The drug also helped to delay confirmed progression of disability on the EDSS scale by 40% and reduced active inflammation observed on MRI scans by up to 95%, as well as total damage on MRI scans by up to 83%.
The risks of taking ocrelizumab include infusion-related reactions, such as itchiness, rash, irritation in the throat, flushed face, fever, headache, and other various symptoms. Ocrevus also increases the risk of infection, including respiratory tract infections and herpes infections. There also may be an increased risk of malignancy (cancers), such as breast cancer. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical help immediately.
Talk to your doctor or a professional healthcare administrator to find out if Ocrevus is right for you.
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