See the DrugPatentWatch profile for kesimpta
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.