Ocrevus - 2 shots per year? possibly

[Marco]

"We are delighted that these positive Phase 3 data for OCREVUS administered subcutaneously with ENHANZE opens up the potential for people living with multiple sclerosis to receive their treatment in just 10 minutes, twice a year," said Dr. Helen Torley

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-rele...301876188.html

[Marco]

With the multiple sclerosis market growing rapidly—from $18.9 billion in 2020 to a projected $29.8 billion in 2030, according to GlobalData—Roche is primed to take advantage with Ocrevus (ocrelizumab).

Now the monoclonal antibody, which racked (PDF) up nearly $7 billion in sales last year, appears on the verge of gaining an added advantage with a more convenient way to be administered.

A phase 3 study has shown that a new, subcutaneous version of Ocrevus has proven to be non-inferior to the current infused treatment as measured by the level of drug in the blood, 12 weeks after administration.

Specific numbers were not included in Roche’s release but the company said that the trial achieved both its primary and secondary endpoints. The injected version also matched the performance of the infused treatment in controlling magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesion activity in the brain over 12 weeks, Roche said.

The injected regimen of Ocrevus is a 10-minute procedure as opposed to a four-hour infusion. Both treatments are administered every six months. In addition to the time convenience, there also can be a travel edge for patients as more MS centers would be able to administer injected Ocrevus. Some MS centers are unable to deliver the infused treatment because specialized infrastructure is needed. Another limitation at some centers is IV capacity, Roche explained.

“These results give people living with MS the possibility to receive the transformational benefits of Ocrevus in the way best suited to their lives while freeing up time and healthcare resources,” said Levi Garraway, M.D., Ph.D., Genentech’s chief medical officer and head of global product development.

https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/...res-iv-ocrevus

[KoKo]

Wow, that would certainly be quite a change for the better.

Going from a 4-hour IV infusion to a quick subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.

A nice improvement for those who are treated with Ocrevus.