Download Patient Guide
We want to ensure that you receive the highest level of healthcare. This means keeping you educated and informed about what is involved in receiving Ocrevus Infusion Therapy. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your doctor or medical technician.
Understanding Ocrevus Infusion Therapy
Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS in adults. It is also approved for use in adults with primary progressive MS. Ocrevus works by targeting and reducing specific B cells in the immune system. These B cells are believed to play a role in the immune attack on myelin – the protective sheath that surrounds nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. By reducing these B cells, Ocrevus helps slow the progression of MS and decrease disease activity.
Ocrevus is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, meaning it is given directly into a vein through an IV line, usually in your arm.
The dosing schedule is as follows:
First dose:
split into two infusions, given two weeks apart
Subsequent doses:
one infusion every six months, assuming no adverse reactions. Each infusion is provided in a clinical setting such as a hospital or infusion centre, under medical supervision.
Preparing for Your Ocrevus Infusion
Bear the following in mind in preparation for your Ocrevus Infusion appointment:
-
1
Arrive early: Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled admission time.
-
2
Arrange transport: You will be at the hospital for approximately 4–6 hours, so it is recommended that you arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.
-
3
Bring comfort items: Feel free to bring a pillow, blanket, book, tablet, snacks, and water to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.
-
4
Dress in layers: Infusion rooms may vary in
-
5
temperature. Dressing in layers will help you stay comfortable throughout your treatment.
The Day of the Procedure
Here is what to expect on the day of your infusion.
STEP 1: Arrival and Check-in
When you arrive at Health City, check in at reception. A staff member will be there to greet and assist you.
STEP 2: Escort to the Infusion Room
A Health City team member will accompany you to the infusion room, where you will receive your treatment.
STEP 3: Pre-Infusion (30–60 minutes)
A nurse will: Take your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, oxygen levels); Insert an IV line into your arm; and Administer pre-medications (including corticosteroids, antihistamines, and antipyretics) to help reduce the risk of infusion reactions.
STEP 4: During the Infusion
You will be seated or lying comfortably during the infusion. If any reaction occurs, the infusion may be slowed or paused as necessary. First dose: split into two sessions, each lasting approximately 2 hours Subsequent doses: last between 2–4 hours, depending on how well you tolerate the treatment STEP 5: Post-Infusion Monitoring (1 hour)
Possible Side Effects
-
Itchy skin, rash, or hives -
Fatigue or tiredness
-
Coughing or wheezing
-
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
-
Throat irritation or pain
-
Flushing (redness of the face)
-
Fever (38°C/100.4°F or higher)
-
Nausea
-
Headache
-
Swelling of the throat
-
Dizziness or faintness
-
Rapid heartbeat (over 100 beats per minute).
Common Infusion Reactions Infusion reactions are relatively common with Ocrevus, particularly with the first dose. Most are mild to moderate, but some can be serious. Contact Health City immediately if you experience:
Serious Side Effects
In rare cases, Ocrevus may lead to more serious health issues.
-
- Increased risk of cancer:
Particularly breast cancer. Discuss any personal or family history of cancer with your doctor.
- Increased risk of cancer:
Colitis (inflammation of the colon):
Watch for:
-
- Diarrhoea or frequent bowel movements
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Black or tarry stools
- Severe abdominal pain
Increased risk of infection:
Ocrevus can weaken your immune system, resulting in:
-
- Respiratory tract infections (cough, fever, chills)
- Skin or herpes infections (cold sores, shingles, genital sores, rash)
- Severe herpes symptoms such as vision changes, eye redness or pain, persistent headache, stiff neck, or confusion
- Hepatitis B reactivation:
If you’ve previously had Hepatitis B, the virus could reactivate. A blood test will be done prior to starting therapy.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML):
A rare brain infection that can cause severe disability or death. Symptoms include:
- Worsening memory or thinking
- Vision changes
- Loss of strength or coordination
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Decreased immunoglobulins:
Your immune system proteins may reduce over time. Regular blood tests will monitor your levels throughout treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should not receive Ocrevus if you: - Have an active Hepatitis B virus infection, or - Have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to Ocrevus or any of its ingredients.
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Ocrevus. Most side effects relate to immune system suppression, such as increased risk of infections or infusion reactions. If you experience unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Yes, and it’s encouraged. Regular physical activity can help manage MS symptoms. However, listen to your body and pace yourself. Speak to your doctor or a physiotherapist for advice tailored to your condition and energy levels.
