In 2017, the FDA approved a new multiple sclerosis treatment called ocrelizumab, which is sold under the brand name Ocrevus. This injectable drug has been shown to be a successful treatment for all types of multiple sclerosis, including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, active secondary progressive disease, and primary progressive MS. The drug can't reverse the effects of the disease, but it slows progress so that symptoms don't worsen as quickly.
How It Works
The drug works by depleting B cells, which are a natural part of the immune system. In people with MS, B cells seem to malfunction and start attacking the nervous system. By reducing the power of B cells, the damage to nerves is slowed.
The new treatment is more effective than earlier treatments at slowing symptoms from primary progressive MS. It's more effective at halting progression from the relapsing forms of the condition. It has fewer side effects than other treatments, with upper respiratory infections and cold sores being the most common issues.
Dosing
Ocrelizumab is a drug that you take via infusion. You will need to go into a medical facility to have it administered through an IV. You will initially need two doses, taken two weeks apart. Each dose will take about two and a half hours to administer.
After that, you will get additional doses once every six months. Those infusions will also need to happen in a medical facility, and they will take 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Your doctor may give you additional medications to prevent allergic reactions during the infusion.
Other Considerations
Ocrelizumab may not be appropriate for everyone with MS. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor. The drug can cause damage to a developing baby. The treatment can affect your immune system so that you may have complications from vaccines.
Talk to your doctor about this and any treatment for multiple sclerosis.
