Ocrevus SC, administered twice a year, maintains the same schedule as the IV version but eliminates the need for IV facilities. This enhances accessibility for people living with MS and reduces the burden on healthcare providers.
The approval is based on data from the Phase III OCARINA II trial, which demonstrated that the SC injection achieves similar levels of Ocrevus in the blood and a comparable safety and efficacy profile to the IV formulation. The SC option was well tolerated, with no new safety concerns identified. Over 92% of participants reported satisfaction with the SC administration.
Ava Battles, Chief Executive of MS Ireland welcomed the news saying “MS Ireland is acutely aware of the long waiting lists to access IV services in some hospitals. This has been a significant challenge for many people living with MS requiring timely treatment. The introduction of Ocrevus SC offers a promising way to ease this issue. It is the hope of MS Ireland that this new administration method will result in faster access to this medication for those who require it, thereby reducing delays and improving outcomes for people living with MS.”
“Now, people in the EU with multiple sclerosis can have their medicine administered in just 10 minutes twice per year without needing an IV facility,” said Levi Garraway, M.D., Ph.D., Roche’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development. “This makes it easier for more people with multiple sclerosis to access their treatment, while also saving time for providers.”
MS Ireland will be monitoring this space to bring additional updates on when people living with MS in Ireland will be able to access this new formulation and administration method. Please keep an eye on our website and socials for further updates.
For more see: https://www.roche.com/media/releases/med-cor-2024-06-25