See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Ocrevus Infusion treatments.
Ocrevus is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- Relapsing and primary-progressive multiple sclerosis
What is Ocrevus?
What is Ocrevus?
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is an immunosuppressive drug that physicians prescribe for patients with certain kinds of multiple sclerosis (MS).
How Ocrevus works:
Ocrevus is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody. The role of a monoclonal antibody is to find and then terminate particular cells within the body.
Ocrevus specifically targets the CD20-positive marker on B lymphocytes. Focusing exclusively on the CD20-positive marker helps the patient’s other cells remain undamaged and healthy.
Ocrevus Infusion Dosage & Administration
Ocrevus Infusion Dosage and Administration
Ocrevus is delivered directly into the bloodstream via IV infusion. When beginning Ocrevus treatment, patients usually receive 300 mg of Ocrevus as their first dose, returning two weeks later for their second dose of 300 mg. After that, an MS patient typically receives Ocrevus infusions twice a year (i.e., every six months).
An Ocrevus IV infusion treatment is very similar to the procedure listed below.
- One of IVX Health’s nurses gently inserts a thin, small catheter into a vein in the patient’s arm. This is the IV line.
- The nurse connects the IV line to the tubing that is connected to the bottle or bag of Ocrevus.
- The Ocrevus IV infusion treatment begins.
To ensure everything moves along smoothly, medical professionals at IVX Health monitor patients during their Ocrevus treatment.
An MS Ocrevus infusion treatment takes about two hours. Following treatment, patients remain at IVX Health for an observation period, typically between one-two hours. During this time, patients are monitored. It is possible for a patient to experience side effects within the 24 hour timeframe following treatment.
At IVX Health, patients receive everything they need to feel comfortable during treatment, including:
- Personalized service from a pleasant and caring clinical staff
- Complimentary internet, snacks and beverages
- Leather recliners
- Flat-screen televisions to access their favorite TV shows, as well as movie-streaming opportunities
- Flexible scheduling
- Conveniently located centers
Ocrevus Side Effects
Ocrevus Infusion Side Effects
As with all treatments, side effects are possible. If the patient experiences any of the side effects below, he or she needs to inform the nurse of these symptoms right away.
With Ocrevus IV Infusion, patients may experience:
- Nausea
- A rash
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- A fever
- Hives
- Throat irritation
- A headache
- Shortness of breath
- A fast heartbeat
- Neurological issues (e.g., difficulty seeing, balance problems, weakness on one side of the body).
Other risks associated with Ocrevus IV Infusion include:
- An infection
- An upper or lower respiratory infection
- Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)
- The development of a cough or a wheeze
If any of these signs or symptoms develop following an IV infusion of Ocrevus, the patient needs to contact IVX Health or seek medical care right away.
Preparing for Your Ocrevus Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Ocrevus Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Ocrevus Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Ocrevus Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Ocrevus
Every Ocrevus Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- Relapsing and primary-progressive multiple sclerosis
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Ocrevus treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Ocrevus treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
