Key takeaways
Ofatumumab (Kesimpta) and fingolimod (Gilenya) are both medications used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). They help reduce the number of MS flare-ups, but they belong to different medication classes. Ofatumumab is a monoclonal antibody that is injected under the skin, while fingolimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator taken orally. Ofatumumab is typically injected once a month after an initial three-week period of weekly injections, whereas fingolimod is taken once daily. Ofatumumab is available as a prefilled syringe or Sensoready Pen, while fingolimod comes in capsule form or as an orally disintegrating tablet. Common side effects of ofatumumab include injection site reactions and headaches, while fingolimod can cause headaches, nausea, and diarrhea. Both medications increase the risk of infections, but fingolimod also has potential heart and liver-related side effects. Additionally, ofatumumab is not recommended for people with active hepatitis B, and fingolimod is contraindicated for those with recent heart issues or certain heart rhythm problems.
