Brand name: Kesimpta.
Generic name: Ofatumumab.
Who takes it?:
Adults with Active Relapsing Remitting MS and Very Active Relapsing Remitting MS.
Kesimpta, reduces relapses by up to 70%. Studies have also shown disease progression is slows and fewer lesions are noticed on MRI scans.
Kesimpta is not suitable for people who have had previous cancers or serious infections such as AIDS/Hepatitis B or people who are taking other immune suppressants.
Kesimpta must not be taken when pregnant, women of child bearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after stopping the treatment.
How is it given?:
Kesimpta is a self-administered subcutaneous injection once a month. Initially you start by injecting once a week for the first 3 weeks, then once a month.
The Hereford MS Team will provide support in training you how to inject.
Who Monitors it?:
Screening bloods are obtained prior to treatment. Further monitoring bloods with be arranged. You will be informed when they are due, we will ask you either to attend your Gp practice or the MS Nurse home phlebotomy service will collect them. The MS Nurse phlebotomy service, can come to your home environment or after negotiation with your employer, at your work place.
At each MS Nurse appointment you will be asked about your Kesimpta:
- Have you any injection site reactions.
- Have any side effects.
- Had any infections.
Side effects:
- Injection site reaction.
- Upper respiratory infections.
- Cold sores.
- UTIs.
- Decrease in immune cells in your bloods.
Travel:
This medication needs to be kept in your hand luggage when travelling abroad, as the hold of the plane becomes too cold for the Kesimpta and may degrade its effectiveness
We can provide a letter for you to show to custom officers, as you will be traveling with sharps.
Vaccine:
Whilst on kesimpta we advice that you do not have Live or Live-attenuated vaccines, please call us for further advice.
https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/health-and-social-care/health-care/flu-jabs