Story by: Lynne Choate on March 31, 2017
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of a new drug this week that has many patients of multiple sclerosis (MS) and their care providers excited about improved outcomes. Ocrelizumab has been approved for the treatment of primary progressive MS and relapsing forms of MS.
This medication differs from previous treatment options because it offers treatment for both primary progressive MS and relapsing forms of MS.
Are you or someone you love struggling to understand an MS diagnosis? Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Center offers educational, therapeutic, support and exercise programs. Our staff can also assist with:
The resource center’s services are available at no cost to you or your family. The goal is to tailor support services so that you receive the personal attention you deserve to address your physical and emotional needs. For more information, call the Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Center at (502) 599-3230.
Primary progressive MS, the rarest form of MS, is progressive from the start and affects about 10 percent of patients. In relapsing forms of MS, symptoms occur quickly for hours or days, then often get better or go away. Then the symptoms may reoccur months or years later. This pattern can go on for years before diagnosis.
The research shows that ocrelizumab temporarily blocks immune system cells called B cells that have been discovered to play a key role in the disease. None of the medications on the market take this approach.
Ocrelizumab is administered by intravenous infusion every six months and takes about three to four hours. There is no pain or discomfort.
For more information on the treatment of MS or to become a patient with Norton Neurology Services – MS Services, call (502) 899-6782.
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