Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can feel overwhelming. Fatigue, mobility issues, and flare-ups often affect daily life. Thankfully, medical science is offering new hope. One such breakthrough is Kesimpta, an MS treatment that allows patients to self-inject at home, making life more manageable.
What is Kesimpta?
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS). It is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Unlike traditional MS drugs that require hospital visits, Kesimpta is given through a monthly self-injection using a pre-filled pen.
Table of Contents
Kesimpta Uses
- Primary Use: Treatment of relapsing forms of MS (including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS).
- Why Important: MS is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the central nervous system. Kesimpta helps reduce relapses and slow down disease progression.
- FDA Approval: Kesimpta was FDA-approved in 2020, and since then, it has become a preferred option for patients who want both effectiveness and convenience.
How Does Kesimpta Work?
To understand Kesimpta, let’s look at how MS works.
- In MS, B-cells (a type of immune cell) attack the protective covering of nerves (myelin).
- Kesimpta targets CD20-positive B-cells and reduces their activity.
- This prevents further nerve damage, leading to fewer relapses and slower disease progression.
Think of Kesimpta as a “security guard” that calms down overactive immune cells.
Kesimpta Dosage and Administration
- Form: Subcutaneous injection (under the skin).
- Dosage Schedule:
- Initial: Weekly injections for the first 3 weeks.
- Maintenance: Once-a-month injection starting from week 4.
- Kesimpta Injection Pen: Easy-to-use, designed for self-administration at home.
This self-injection system saves patients from frequent hospital visits, making treatment less stressful.
Kesimpta Effectiveness
Clinical Results
Studies show Kesimpta reduces annual relapse rates by up to 59% compared to other treatments.
Kesimpta vs Ocrevus
- Kesimpta: Monthly self-injection, no infusion center needed.
- Ocrevus: Twice-yearly infusion, requires hospital visits.
- Effectiveness is similar, but Kesimpta offers greater convenience.
How Effective is Kesimpta for MS?
Many patients experience fewer relapses within the first 6 months of treatment.
Kesimpta Side Effects
Like all medicines, Kesimpta has side effects.
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Fever
- Injection site redness or swelling
- Upper respiratory tract infections
Serious Side Effects
- Risk of infections (weakened immune system)
- Hepatitis B reactivation
- Rare risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
Tip: Always consult your doctor if side effects become severe.
Warnings and Precautions
- Not for everyone: Patients with active infections should avoid Kesimpta.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Limited data; not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
- Vaccinations: Live vaccines should be avoided before and during treatment.
Kesimpta Cost and Price
- Average Price: Around $7,000–$8,000 per month in the U.S.
- Annual Cost: Approximately $70,000–$80,000 per year.
- Insurance Help: Many patients qualify for financial assistance through Novartis patient support programs.
How Long Can You Stay on Kesimpta?
There is no strict time limit, but many patients can continue for years if the drug remains effective and safe. Regular monitoring with your doctor is important.
Patient Experiences with Kesimpta
Patients love Kesimpta because it saves them from hospital infusions. Most describe the injection pen as simple, quick, and relatively painless.
Conclusion
Kesimpta is not just another MS drug—it’s a treatment that empowers patients with convenience, effectiveness, and long-term hope. While it comes with a high price tag and possible side effects, its benefits for many patients are life-changing.
If you or a loved one is living with MS, discussing Kesimpta with your doctor could be a step toward better management of the disease.
FAQs
1. What is Kesimpta used for?
Kesimpta is used to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.
2. How much does Kesimpta cost per year?
The cost is around $70,000–$80,000 annually in the U.S., but financial assistance may lower expenses.
3. How effective is Kesimpta for MS?
It significantly reduces relapses and slows MS progression, showing strong results in clinical trials.
4. How many years can you stay on Kesimpta?
Patients can remain on Kesimpta long-term, as long as it remains effective and safe.
5. Kesimpta vs Ocrevus: Which is better?
Both are highly effective, but Kesimpta offers the convenience of at-home injections, while Ocrevus requires hospital infusions.
