The Ocrevus NDC (National Drug Code) is a unique identifier for the drug Ocrevus, used in the United States for prescription drug distribution and reimbursement.
What is Ocrevus and what is it used for?
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS, as well as primary progressive MS [1]. It is a B-cell depleting therapy that targets CD20, a protein found on the surface of B-cells [2]. By depleting these cells, Ocrevus can reduce the frequency of relapses and the accumulation of new brain lesions in patients with MS [3].
How is Ocrevus administered?
Ocrevus is administered intravenously, meaning it is given through an IV infusion. Dosing typically involves two infusions every six months, following an initial dosing schedule [1].
What are the potential side effects of Ocrevus?
Common side effects of Ocrevus can include infusion-related reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, and lower respiratory tract infections [1]. Serious risks include a higher risk of certain cancers and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious brain infection [1]. Patients should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.
What is the typical cost of Ocrevus?
The cost of Ocrevus can vary significantly based on insurance coverage, geographic location, and pharmacy. However, Ocrevus is a high-cost specialty drug. For example, one course of treatment can cost tens of thousands of dollars [4]. Insurance and patient assistance programs may help offset these costs for eligible individuals.
When does Ocrevus's patent expire?
Information on specific patent expiry dates for Ocrevus is detailed and subject to ongoing legal challenges. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks and provides data on pharmaceutical patents, which can include detailed information on Ocrevus's patent landscape [5]. Patent expiry dates are crucial for determining when generic or biosimilar versions of the drug might become available.
Are there any biosimilar versions of Ocrevus?
As of late 2023, there are no approved biosimilar versions of Ocrevus in the United States [6]. The development and approval of biosimilars for complex biologic drugs like Ocrevus can take many years and involve extensive clinical trials to demonstrate similarity in safety and efficacy to the reference product.
How does Ocrevus compare to other MS treatments?
Ocrevus is a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) for MS. It differs from other DMTs in its mechanism of action, targeting B-cells, which is distinct from therapies that target T-cells or reduce lymphocyte trafficking. Its efficacy and safety profile are evaluated against other available MS treatments in clinical studies [3].
Sources:
[1] https://www.ocrevus.com/
[2] https://www.gene.com/media/press-releases/detail/2199/ocrevus-ocrelizumab-demonstrates-long-term-efficacy-and-safety-in-a
[3] https://www.multiplesclerosisnewtoday.com/news-updates/ocrevus-ocrelizumab-oc-medication-fda-approved-relapsing-ms-ppms
[4] https://www.goodrx.com/ocrevus
[5] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/biosimilar-product-information