New Multiple Sclerosis Rx Gets Approval

A newly approved multiple sclerosis (MS) medication is the first ever approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat a particular type of MS.

The FDA approved Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) to treat relapsing MS and primary progressive MS (PPMS). This is the first FDA-approved medication for PPMS.

MS is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. It disrupts communication between the brain and body, which can lead to problems with movement. Over time, the disease progressively worsens overall functioning.

The results of two studies — one in more than 1,600 participants with relapsing MS and another in more than 730 with PPMS — led the FDA to grant approval to Ocrevus. Ocrelizumab appeared to slow the worsening of symptoms in both studies.

Ocrelizumab can cause infusion-related reactions that can be serious. These reactions include nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, fever, low blood pressure, flushing and hives.

Other commonly reported side effects included upper and lower respiratory infections and skin infections. The FDA noted that ocrelizumab shouldn't be used in patients with hepatitis B or an active infection.

Talk to your doctor before receiving a vaccination while being treated with ocrelizumab.

Genentech markets Ocrevus.