Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)

Ocrevus
Generic Name: ocrelizumab (OK re LIZ ue mab)
Brand Names: Ocrevus
FDA Approved: March 29, 2017
Ocrevus is rated 4.5/10

Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that affects the actions of the body's immune system. Monoclonal antibodies are made to target and destroy only certain cells in the body. This may help to protect healthy cells from damage.

Ocrevus is used to treat multiple sclerosis (relapsing or progressive forms) in adults.

Ocrevus may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Ocrevus dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Sclerosis:
Initial dose: 300 mg IV followed 2 weeks later by a second 300 mg IV infusion
Maintenance dose: 600 mg IV every 6 months

Manufacturer recommended infusion rates (consult manufacturer product information for more information):
-Infusions 1 and 2 (300 mg of this drug in 250 mL 0.9% sodium chloride injection): Start at 30 mL/hr and increase by 30 mL/hr every 30 minutes to a maximum of 180 mL/hr; duration of 2.5 hours or longer
-Subsequent infusions (600 mg of this drug in 500 mL 0.9% sodium chloride injection): Start at 40 mL/hr and increase by 40 mL/hr every 30 minutes to a maximum of 200 mL/hr; duration of 3.5 hours or longer

Comments:
-The patient should be premedicated with methylprednisolone (or an equivalent corticosteroid) 100 mg IV approximately 30 minutes prior to each infusion and an antihistamine (e.g., diphenhydramine) approximately 30 to 60 minutes prior to each infusion; the addition of an antipyretic (e.g., acetaminophen) may also be considered.
-The patient should be observed for at least one hour after the completion of the infusion.
-If a planned infusion is missed, administer it as soon as possible; do not wait until the next scheduled dose. Reset the dose schedule to administer the next sequential dose 6 months after the missed dose is administered. Doses must be sep>ted by at least 5 months.

Use: For the treatment of patients with relapsing or primary progressive forms of multiple sclerosis

Important information
Ocrevus may cause unpleasant side effects while the medicine is injected, or up to 24 hours later. Tell your caregivers if you have unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, nausea, skin rash, chest tightness, or trouble breathing within 24 hours after your injection.

Ocrevus affects your immune system. You may get infections more easily, even serious or fatal infections. Call your doctor if you have a fever, chills, cough, mouth sores, skin sores or blisters, itching, tingling, burning pain, or problems with speech, thought, vision, or muscle movement.

If you've ever had hepatitis B, it may become active or get worse while you are using or after you stop using ocrelizumab. You may need frequent liver function tests for several months.