Yes, Kesimpta Treats Relapsing Forms of Multiple Sclerosis
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is an FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy specifically for adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease.[1] It targets CD20-positive B cells to reduce relapse rates and MRI lesion activity, administered monthly via self-injection after an initial dose.
How Does Kesimpta Work for MS?
Kesimpta binds to B cells, depleting them to interrupt immune attacks on the central nervous system. Clinical trials (ASCLEPIOS I/II) showed it cut annualized relapse rates by 51-59% versus Aubagio (teriflunomide) and slowed disability progression.[1][2]
Who Can Use Kesimpta and When Was It Approved?
Approved in August 2020 for RMS in adults 18+. Not for primary progressive MS. Patients need monitoring for infections and hepatitis B reactivation; it's pregnancy category not recommended.[1]
How Does Kesimpta Compare to Other MS Drugs?
| Drug | Dosing | Key Trial Relapse Reduction | Common Side Effects |
|------|--------|-----------------------------|---------------------|
| Kesimpta | Monthly subcutaneous | 51-59% vs Aubagio [2] | Injection reactions (20%), infections (51%) [1] |
| Ocrevus | 6-month IV infusion | 46-47% vs interferon [3] | Infusion reactions, infections |
| Briumvi | 6-week loading, then every 6 months IV | 54-83% vs Aubagio [4] | Infusion reactions, infections |
| Mavenclad | 2-year oral course | 48% vs Rebif [5] | Lymphopenia, infections |
Kesimpta offers easier home dosing than IV options like Ocrevus or Briumvi but requires refrigeration.
What Side Effects Do MS Patients Report?
Upper respiratory infections (39%), headache (18%), injection reactions (16%, often mild and decreasing over time). Serious risks include progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (rare) and reduced immunoglobulins.[1] Patients on forums note manageable tolerability compared to oral fatigue-heavy drugs.
When Does Kesimpta's Patent Expire?
Novartis holds key patents on ofatumumab for MS, with U.S. exclusivity until at least 2032 (pediatric extension possible to 2035). No biosimilars approved yet; challenges ongoing.[6]
[1]: Kesimpta Prescribing Information (Novartis, 2023)
[2]: NEJM: ASCLEPIOS Trials (2020)
[3]: NEJM: OPERA Trials for Ocrevus (2017)
[4]: NEJM: HERO Trial for Briumvi (2023)
[5]: NEJM: CLARITY Extension for Mavenclad (2019)
[6]: DrugPatentWatch: Kesimpta Patents