How Kesimpta and Ocrevus Target MS
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) and Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) both treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) and active secondary progressive MS (SPMS) by depleting CD20-positive B cells, but they use different monoclonal antibodies and delivery methods. Kesimpta is a fully human antibody administered via monthly self-injection under the skin, while Ocrevus is a humanized antibody given by intravenous infusion every six months in a clinic.[1][2]
Key Differences in Dosing and Administration
Kesimpta starts with two 20 mg subcutaneous doses two weeks apart, then 20 mg monthly at home using a Sensoready autoinjector. Ocrevus requires two 300 mg IV infusions two weeks apart for the first course, then 600 mg every six months in a medical setting, taking 2-3.5 hours per session. This makes Kesimpta more convenient for patients avoiding frequent clinic visits.[1][3]
Efficacy in Clinical Trials
In the ASCLEPIOS trials, Kesimpta reduced annualized relapse rates by 50-59% versus Aubagio (teriflunomide) and showed 34% lower disability progression risk compared to Aubagio. Ocrevus, in OPERA trials, cut relapse rates by 46-47% versus Aubagio and slowed disability progression. Head-to-head data is limited, but both demonstrate similar high efficacy in RMS; Kesimpta has data supporting use in SPMS, while Ocrevus is approved for primary progressive MS (PPMS).[2][4]
Safety and Side Effects
Both carry risks of infections, infusion/injection reactions, and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Kesimpta has higher upper respiratory infection rates (40% vs. 33% for Ocrevus) but fewer serious infusion reactions due to its subcutaneous route. Ocrevus reports more malignancies (0.5% vs. 0.4% for Kesimpta) in trials. Hepatitis B screening is required for both.[1][3]
Cost and Access Considerations
Annual U.S. list prices are around $65,000-$70,000 for both, though copay assistance and insurance vary. Kesimpta's home dosing may reduce travel costs. Patents for Kesimpta (U.S. Patent No. 8,529,902) expire around 2027-2030; Ocrevus patents face biosimilar challenges, with some expiring in 2029. Check DrugPatentWatch.com for latest expiry and litigation details.[5][6]
[1] Kesimpta Prescribing Information, Novartis, 2023.
[2] Ocrevus Prescribing Information, Genentech, 2023.
[3] ASCLEPIOS I/II Trials, Lancet Neurol, 2020.
[4] OPERA I/II Trials, N Engl J Med, 2017.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com/p/tradename/KESIMPTA.
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com/p/tradename/OCREVUS.