Kesimpta helps to treat the relapse of a condition known as multiple sclerosis (MS), where the immune system of the body destroys the membranes that surround the nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve. MS does not have a known etiology. It is seen as an immunological-mediated illness in which the body’s immune system destroys its own tissues. Kesimpta is used to help prevent the relapse of MS, rather than treating it. Since it can cause a number of negative effects, try to take this medication only after a doctor’s prescription.
Here we will discuss the uses, side effects, and price of Kesimpta in detail for those people who are suffering from multiple sclerosis.
About Kesimpta
An FDA-approved treatment called Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is used to decrease the progressive and relapse risk in some types of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS)– a chronic illness in which brain and spinal cord nerve cells’ protective sheaths are harmed. It is a monthly injection that you can self-administer at home under the skin (subcutaneously).
Taking kesimpta is also known as B-cell depletion therapy or B-cell therapy as it functions for reducing B-cells. Although it won’t cure MS, this medication can decrease its development and lower the likelihood of its relapses.
Drug Class
- CD20 monoclonal antibodies
- Selective immunosuppressants
What are the ingredients in Kesimpta?
Active ingredient
- Ofatumumab
Inactive ingredients
- Arginine
- Disodium edetate
- Polysorbate 80
- Sodium acetate trihydrate
- Sodium chloride
- Water for Injection
- Hydrochloric acid
Moreover, you can speak to Marham’s internal medicine specialist online to know more detail about this medicine.
What is the Price of Kesimpta in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, Kesimpta costs between PKR 4000-5000 per pack. It is available both online and at pharmacies.
What are the Uses of Kesimpta?
Following are the uses of Kesimpta;
- Kesimpa is used for adults to treat specific types of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)
- To treat clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)
- For relapsing and remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)
- To treat active secondary progressive disease (active SPMS)
What are the Side Effects of Kesimpta?
Side effects of Kesimpta include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Local injection site reactions (redness, pain, itching, and swelling)
Who should not use Kesimpta?
You should not use this medicine if you:
- Have active hepatitis B virus infection
Other Details About Kesimpta
The list of important information about Kesimpta includes:
I- Storage
The following are some details regarding the storage of Kesimptas;
- Keep this medication in a fridge between 36 and 46 °F
- To protect it from light, keep this medication in the original container until you’re ready to use it
- Do not shake
- Do not freeze
II- Dosage
The recommended dosage of Kesimpta is:
- At the initial level, you will take a 20 mg subcutaneous injection administered at weeks 0, 1, and 2.
- Then you need to take the same dose at week 4 after taking a gap of 7 days.
III- Proper Use of Kesimpta
- Kesimpta is a subcutaneous injection meant for patient self-administration.
- Give injections away from moles, scars, stretch marks, and regions of sore, bruised, red, scaly, or hard skin.
- Kesimpta should be applied subcutaneously to the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.
IV- Precautions
- Patients should be made aware that injection-related responses (systemic) may manifest, typically within 24 hours and mostly after the initial injection.
- The first injection should be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare expert.
V- Drug interactions of Kesimpta
The drug interactions of Kesimpta include:
- Anti-CD20 antibodies – hepatitis B
- Anti-CD20 antibodies – infections
- Tumor lysis syndrome
- Cardiopulmonary disease
- Cytopenias
VI- Substitutes of Kesimpta
Here is the drug list that can be used in place of Kesimpta;
- Gilenya
- Copaxone
Final Notes
It is always mandatory to consult an expert before using any kind of medication. You should talk to an expert, if you want to take this medicine for multiple sclerosis.
FAQs
1- How effective is Kesimpta for MS?
Kesimpta was shown to be really effective in multiple studies at lowering the rate of relapses and active lesions and slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis
2- How long do you take Kesimpta?
After consulting your doctor, choose a day, and for the first three weeks, only administer one dose each week. Take a gap of 7 days. After this, again take a dose as your first maintenance dose.
3- What is the best drug for treating multiple sclerosis?
The drug, known as ublituximab, outperformed an established oral MS treatment in lowering patients’ relapses, or episodes of symptoms of MS.
Disclaimer: The content published on Marham.pk is for informational or educational purposes only, produced from FDA-approved literature, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before using a prescription or over-the-counter drug, or any other treatment option.