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

Kesimpta

(ofatumumab)

Ocrevus

(ocrelizumab)

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 Ocrevus

Prescription only

Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It can also treat certain children 10 years and older with relapsing-remitting MS. Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a type of monoclonal antibody. It's given as an infusion through the vein every 6 months at a medical center or clinic. A trained healthcare professional will help give Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) to you. Side effects can include a higher risk of infections and infusion reactions.

Indications for Ocrevus

All types of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults
Relapsing-remitting MS in children 10 years and older who weigh at least 55 lbs

Pros and Cons for Ocrevus

Pros

Given twice a year (after a couple starter doses)
Can help lessen the number of MS relapses
Approved for all types of MS in adults
Also approved for MS in certain children ages 10 years and older
Might be better tolerated than some other injectable MS medications

Cons

Must be given as an infusion through the vein
Each infusion takes a few hours
Can cause infusion reactions (like itching, flushing, nausea, and fast heartbeat)
Can raise your risk of infections
Doesn't cure MS