Description

Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab) 300mg/10ml Injection in Pakistan – Price, Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab) is an advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment available in Pakistan. It is the first FDA-approved therapy for primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) and is also prescribed for relapsing forms of MS (RMS) in adults. Manufactured by Roche/Genentech, Ocrevus is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that works by targeting CD20-positive B cells, a key driver in the autoimmune attack on the myelin sheath.

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Ocrevus Price in Pakistan

• Available Strength: 300mg/10ml vial (30 mg/ml concentration)

• Price Range: Rs. 450,000 – 520,000 per vial (imported)
  💡 Price may vary depending on availability and distributor.

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How Ocrevus Works

• Targets CD20-positive B cells that contribute to MS progression.

• Depletes B cells without affecting the entire immune system.

• Reduces inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS).

• Protects nerve cells by preventing myelin sheath damage.

• Delays disability progression and improves long-term outcomes in MS patients.

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Benefits of Ocrevus

• Relapsing MS (RMS):

  • Reduces relapse frequency.

  • Delays disability progression.

  • Lowers the number of active brain lesions on MRI.

• Primary Progressive MS (PPMS):

  • Slows disease progression.

  • Preserves walking ability by limiting mobility decline.

  • First approved treatment option for PPMS.

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Ocrevus Dosage & Administration

Ocrevus is administered by intravenous (IV) infusion under hospital supervision.

• Initial Dose: 600 mg, divided into two 300 mg infusions given two weeks apart.

• Maintenance Dose: 600 mg infusion every 6 months (single infusion).

• Infusion Time: First infusion ~2.5 hours; subsequent infusions may take 3–3.5 hours.

⚠️ Premedication required: Patients are given methylprednisolone (steroid), an antihistamine, and an antipyretic before infusion to minimize infusion-related reactions.

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Side Effects of Ocrevus

Common side effects may include:

• Infusion reactions (fever, rash, itching, difficulty breathing)

• Upper or lower respiratory tract infections

• Skin infections

• Fatigue and headache

• Decreased immunoglobulin levels

Serious but rare side effects: Hepatitis B reactivation, severe infusion reactions, increased risk of certain infections.

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Drug Interactions & Precautions

• Corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisone): May increase infection risk.

• Other immunosuppressants (e.g., fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, mitoxantrone): Avoid combination due to increased immunosuppression.

• Live vaccines: Not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Non-live vaccines should be given at least 2 weeks before starting therapy.

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use only if prescribed; may cross the placenta and transfer into breast milk. Effective contraception is advised during and up to 12 months after treatment.

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Storage Instructions

• Store at 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F) in a refrigerator.

• Keep protected from light.

• Do not freeze or shake.

• Use before expiration date printed on the vial.

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Patient Guidance & Lifestyle Tips

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids before and after infusion.

• Balanced diet: Focus on protein, fruits, and vegetables to support immune function.

• Alcohol: Moderate consumption is acceptable but avoid excess.

• Vaccinations: Discuss with your doctor before any immunization.

• Infection monitoring: Report symptoms such as fever, cough, or unusual fatigue immediately.

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Why Choose Ocrevus?

• First and only approved therapy for PPMS.

• Proven to slow MS progression and reduce relapses.

• Backed by global regulatory approvals (FDA, EMA, Health Canada, TGA, Medsafe).

• Provides long-term disease control with just 2 infusions per year after the initial dosing.