Ocrevus Infusion Dosage for Multiple Sclerosis: Your GoodRx Guide

Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a biologic medication that’s approved to treat relapsing-remitting and primary progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It can slow the progression of MS and lessen the frequency and severity of flare-ups. If you’re prescribed Ocrevus, you’ll receive it as an IV infusion.

When preparing for your first Ocrevus infusion, you may have questions about how long the infusions take and what happens if you can’t make one of your appointments. We cover these topics, along with typical Ocrevus dosages, below.

What to expect when starting Ocrevus infusions

Before you start treatment with Ocrevus, your healthcare team will run a few tests to make sure that it’s safe for you to receive the medication. This includes testing for the hepatitis B virus (HBV), since Ocrevus can reactivate or make it harder to fight off an HBV infection. They’ll also measure immunoglobulins (antibodies) in your blood. If your levels are too low, you may not be able to receive Ocrevus.

You should plan on spending between 4 to 6 hours at your infusion site when you receive your Ocrevus infusions. The infusions themselves usually last between 2 to 4 hours. But you’ll receive a check-up and medications before the infusions start. Then, you’ll be monitored for about 1 hour afterward.

To help make your Ocrevus infusion appointments more comfortable, here are a few tips:

• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows staff easy access to your arm for the infusion.

• Bring water and your favorite snacks, if allowed by your infusion site.

• Pack items that can help you pass the time, such as books, magazines, or a laptop.

• Bring along a pillow and/or blanket.

Keep in mind: Make sure to let the infusion center know if you’re sick on your infusion day. In this case, they’ll likely cancel your appointment and reschedule it after you’ve recovered. 

What’s the typical Ocrevus dosage?

Your first Ocrevus treatment will be split into two doses, which are administered 2 weeks apart. You’ll receive a 300 mg dose over the course of 2.5 hours during each of the two infusion sessions.

After that, you’ll receive a 600 mg dose every 6 months. Each of these infusions will be given over 2 to 4 hours. Exactly how long they take will depend on whether infusion reactions occur. Infusion reactions can range from mild to severe and cause symptoms such as itching, shortness of breath, and nausea. In rare cases, Ocrevus can cause serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) that need to be treated immediately.

You’ll be monitored for at least 1 hour after your Ocrevus infusion for reactions. But they can sometimes happen later on, even after you’ve left the infusion site. Contact your healthcare team right away if you develop any new or worsening symptoms within 24 hours of your infusion. Get immediate medical attention if your symptoms feel severe or life-threatening.

Are there any dosage adjustments for certain situations?

There aren’t any scenarios in which the total amount of Ocrevus you receive during an infusion would be adjusted due to a medical condition, such as liver problems. But how quickly the medication is infused can vary depending on certain factors.

If you don’t have infusion reactions with Ocrevus, your infusions typically go faster. But if you develop a reaction, the infusion staff may need to slow down how quickly the medication is being infused. And if your reaction is severe, the infusion may be stopped temporarily until your symptoms resolve. In the case of a life-threatening reaction, the infusion will be discontinued altogether.

What happens if you miss an Ocrevus infusion?

If you miss an Ocrevus infusion, contact your healthcare team as soon as possible to reschedule. Keep in mind that there are certain situations, such as when you’re sick, in which you should reschedule. But in general, it’s best to stick to your usual schedule as much as possible.

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Written by:

Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA

Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA, has been a pharmacist for 12 years. His first job was floating in a community chain pharmacy.

Edited by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Reviewed by:

Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP

Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP, is a board-certified ambulatory care clinical pharmacist. In his early career, he provided direct patient care in a variety of settings, including hospital and community pharmacies, and in a primary care clinic as a clinical pharmacist.

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