Kesimpta vs. Mavenclad for Multiple Sclerosis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Kesimpta

(ofatumumab)

Mavenclad

(cladribine)

Summary for Kesimpta

Prescription only

Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is an injectable medication for adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It works as a monoclonal antibody to help lessen MS flare-ups that come and go. Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is injected under the skin. You can use the Kesimpta prefilled syringes or Sensoready Pens to inject. After the first 3 weekly injections, you inject the medication once a month. Some common side effects include a higher risk of infections, pain or swelling at the injection site, and headache.

Indications for Kesimpta

Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting MS, clinically isolated syndrome, and secondary progressive MS

Pros and Cons for Kesimpta

Pros

Injections are once a month (after the first 3 injections)
Can inject at home after you're trained
Comes as prefilled syringes and Sensoready Pens
Can be kept at room temperature for up to 7 days

Cons

Doesn't cure MS
Must give as an injection under the skin
Raises your risk of infections
Not recommended for people who are pregnant

Common Side Effects for Kesimpta

Upper respiratory tract infections (39%)
Reactions related to the injection (e.g., fever, chills, tiredness; 21%)
Headache (13%)
Reaction at the injection site (e.g., pain, redness, swelling; 11%)
Urinary tract infection (10%)

Warnings for Kesimpta

Risk of infections
Injection reactions
Lower antibody levels
Harm to an unborn baby

Summary for Mavenclad

Prescription only

Mavenclad (cladribine) is an oral medication used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) that flares up from time to time (relapsing forms of MS). It's not a first-choice medication because it can cause many serious side effects, but it might be an option for people who didn't have good results from other MS medications. You only have to take it a few days out of the year, but need to get regular lab work to check your health. It can be very expensive because it's brand only.

Indications for Mavenclad

Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)

Pros and Cons for Mavenclad

Pros

Short treatment, only need to take it about 10 days per year
Taken by mouth, so can be a good option for people who don't like needles
Comes in a special weekly dosing pack with your exact dose, so convenient to take

Cons

Not taken regularly, so might be difficult for some people to remember when to take it
Need to get lab work and tests done before, during, and after treatment
More likely to get sick during and after taking this medication
Brand only, so can be expensive