Yes, Kesimpta Treats Relapsing MS
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is FDA-approved for adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS.[1] It targets B cells to reduce relapse frequency and slow disability progression.
How Kesimpta Works in Relapsing MS
Kesimpta is a monoclonal antibody injected subcutaneously at home weekly for the first month, then monthly. Clinical trials like ASCLEPIOS I/II showed it cut annualized relapse rates by 51% versus Aubagio (teriflunomide) and slowed brain atrophy.[2]
Who Qualifies for Kesimpta
Prescribed for RMS patients, often those needing high-efficacy treatment after first-line options like interferons fail. Not approved for primary progressive MS.[1]
Common Side Effects Patients Report
Injection-site reactions (20%), upper respiratory infections (39%), headache (18%), and urinary tract infections (11%). Rare risks include progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy; monitor IgG levels.[2] Patients often ask about COVID-19 vaccine response—Kesimpta does not strongly impair it.
How Kesimpta Compares to Ocrevus or Mavenclad
| Drug | Dosing | Efficacy (Relapse Reduction vs. Aubagio) | Key Difference |
|------|--------|-----------------------------------------|---------------|
| Kesimpta | Monthly SC self-inject | 51%[2] | Home use, no infusion |
| Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) | 6-month IV infusion | 46-47%[3] | Broader approval incl. PPMS |
| Mavenclad (cladribine) | 2-year oral course | 49%[4] | Short-term dosing, higher liver risk |
Kesimpta offers similar efficacy to Ocrevus but avoids clinic visits.
Cost and Access for Relapsing MS Patients
List price ~$6,000/month, but copay cards reduce it to $0-$5 for eligible insured patients.[5] Biosimilars unlikely soon.
Patent Status and When Generics Might Arrive
Novartis holds key U.S. patents on Kesimpta until at least 2032 (composition-of-matter).[6] No major challenges filed yet—check DrugPatentWatch.com for updates on expiry and litigation.
Sources
[1]: FDA Label
[2]: ASCLEPIOS Trials (NEJM)
[3]: OPERA Trials (NEJM)
[4]: CLARITY Trial (NEJM)
[5]: Novartis Pricing
[6]: DrugPatentWatch - Kesimpta