Multiple sclerosis treatment with targeted therapy (Ocrevus)

The main task of treating multiple sclerosis is to stop the aggression of the immune system against its tissues and reduce the activity of autoimmune inflammation. Targeted drugs give real hope to impact the disease's course and delay disability onset. In addition, they can improve patient's quality of life. The new drug Ocrevus is considered a breakthrough tool since it effectively slows down the progression of the disease in patients with minimal side effects. Ocrevus is produced by Genentech, owned by the Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche and entered clinical practice in 2017. The drug targets the B-lymphocytes of patients. Typically, these cells form part of the immune system and work to fight infections. However, in the case of MS, these same cells begin to attack the nervous system, causing damage and leading to paralysis and cognitive impairment. The drug is administered intravenously every six months. The initial dose is split into two infusions of 300 mg, which are given two weeks apart. After that, the following doses are given as infusions of 600 mg. This medicine has several benefits, including reducing relapse frequency, slowing down the progression of the disease, and promoting the long-term preservation of motor functions. Ocrevus is not meant to treat multiple sclerosis flare-ups but rather to prevent them. Therefore, it is particularly vital for patients with frequently recurring or primary progressive forms of the disease.