How is Kesimpta administered?
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is a self-administered subcutaneous injection using a prefilled Sensoready pen. Patients inject it at home, typically starting with a 20 mg dose on day 1 and day 15, then monthly 20 mg doses thereafter.[1]
Why a pen instead of an infusion?
Unlike infusion-based multiple sclerosis treatments like Ocrevus (ocrelizumab), which require 2- to 6-hour clinic visits every 6 months, Kesimpta's pen allows quick self-injection (about 10 seconds per dose) without healthcare supervision after training.[1][2]
Who makes Kesimpta and when was it approved?
Novartis developed Kesimpta, approved by the FDA in August 2020 for relapsing forms of MS in adults.[1]
Common patient questions on dosing and side effects
Doses are subcutaneous into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Injection site reactions (redness, swelling) occur in about 21% of patients, usually mild. Upper respiratory infections are the most frequent side effect.[1]
How does it compare to other MS injections?
| Drug | Administration | Dosing Frequency | Clinic Visits Needed? |
|------|----------------|------------------|-----------------------|
| Kesimpta | Self-injection pen | Monthly after loading | No |
| Aubagio | Daily oral tablet | Daily | No |
| Mavenclad | Oral tablets | 2 courses over 2 years | No |
| Ocrevus | IV infusion | Every 6 months | Yes |
Kesimpta targets CD20-positive B cells like Ocrevus but avoids infusions.[2]
[1]: FDA Label for Kesimpta
[2]: Novartis Kesimpta Site