Columns Engaging Thoughts – a Column by Laura Kolaczkowski Ocrevus and Me, Part 2: Infusion Time and Side Effects Ocrevus and Me, Part 2: Infusion Time and Side Effects by Laura Kolaczkowski | July 13, 2017 Share this article: Share article via email Copy article link Editor’s note: This column is second in a series. Read the first part here. Just you wait! How many times have we heard those words or said them to someone else? I find that now it’s my turn to wait. What I’m waiting for is six months to pass until my next Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) infusion. When that wait is over we should know if ocrelizumab is the right drug for me and if we see a noticeable improvement in my multiple sclerosis (MS). I wrote about my decision to try this newest approved therapy in the column “Ocrevus and Me.” I’ve recently completed the two IV infusions of Ocrevus, and while I’m waiting, I thought I would share my experience so far and some comments from my neurologist, Aaron L. Boster, MD, OhioHealth Neurological Physicians, about his expectations for this drug. My worst side effect Most of us want to know what to expect with a new drug: Will there be side effects? What does the infusion feel like? And much more crosses our minds. I can tell you that my worst problem from having these two doses of Ocrevus, done two weeks apart, was boredom. Yes, I was bored silly while waiting the projected six hours to complete the infusion. Fortunately, I had no reaction to the drug, and my time was actually closer to five hours because we didn’t have to stop at any point and readjust the dosing. Where I get my infusions is similar to an isolation cell with lots of privacy, but includes a television and Wi-Fi access. I sat by myself watching the clock and waiting to be released so I could head home. It’s important to note that not everyone is fortunate to have no problems with the introduction of ocrelizumab into their body as I experienced. Infusion time and side effects During my second infusion appointment, I asked the nurse what types of side effects she saw when people start Ocrevus. According to her, the only one that is consistently showing up is an itching sensation some people have, which appears to be a form of allergic reaction and is treatable. This matches the information gathered in all of the clinical trials for ocrelizumab. She added that the worst is when people get an itch they can’t scratch inside their ear. When a reaction happens, the drip rate for the ocrelizumab is slowed down to allow the body to readjust. We talked about this, and according to the clinical trial experience, about 40 percent of people reported this problem with itching. She said they have seen a slightly lower rate in their clinic. Fortunately, I had no sudden need to scratch a hidden itch. Why does it take so long? My infusion involved time to do my paperwork and get my IV line placed, a half hour to allow a small dose of prednisone and Benadryl to get into my system, time to get the ocrelizumab infused, and then an hour observation period after it was all done. The ocrelizumab is set to drip at a slower rate and then increased over time if it is well-tolerated and no reaction such as itching occurs. This all sounds like a chance to take a nice rest and sleep, but every 30 minutes the nurse came in to check on me and to adjust my dosing rate, so there was no opportunity for uninterrupted napping. The only longer stretch of uninterrupted time can be at the end, for the one-hour observation required to be sure there is no delayed reaction to the drug. Checking with an expert Afterward, I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Boster about his thoughts on ocrelizumab. “By definition, new is exciting, but I think it has to be applied in the real-world settting. I’m not just using what I know from the trials I conducted, but also my 10 years of knowledge with Rituxan, a drug that is very similar,” Boster said. “We can borrow a lot of the Rituxan profile and apply it to ocrelizumab. These experiences with the trials and Rituxan allow me to be comfortable with this treatment. We have lots of evidence about the safety profile of this drug.” How fast does ocrelizumab work? I shared with Boster that I have read others’ comments about feeling so much better immediately after receiving Ocrevus and asked what the realistic expectations are to see a difference. “With relapsing MS I think the curve starts to split at three months, where I feel we could start seeing a noticeable difference. With progressive MS it’s harder to tell in the real world because in the absence of relapse events it is hard to spot a difference,” he said. Most people with progressive forms of MS do not experience relapses and changes often are very subtle. “We will do an assessment every six months, which is a natural fit because we have you on a therapy that we give every six months. It is reasonable to do an MRI after the first six months to look for evidence that it is working. Then somewhere between six and 12 months we can look at it clinically to see if it [ocrelizumab] is working. But it is not necessarily this straightforward,” he added. I asked about reports that people felt better immediately, and he said, “I love that people physically feel better. We have to look for that objective experience [from the patient], as well as the subjective from all of our exams. You know from experience that you can have a drug treatment and almost immediately feel better even if it doesn’t yet change your clinical exam or MRI.” A game-changer “I believe that Ocrevus is a game-changer and it resets our expectations for treatment of progressive MS disease states. I think it has potent anti-inflammatory effects,” Boster said. “A truly transformative multiple sclerosis treatment is something that changes the way we approach MS, and I think that this drug fits that description,” he added. Do I feel better? I actually think I do, and will share examples later. I also know the power of the placebo effect and how powerful that can be, so I want to reserve judgment. For now, I’m content to wait for the next six months to pass and see how I feel when I next engage with Boster, and what evidence he finds during his exams. *** Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis. Print This Page About the Author Laura Kolaczkowski Laura Kolaczkowski comes from Beavercreek, Ohio, and worked at the University of Dayton for over 25 years until MS challenged her enough to go onto full-time disability. She is active in the MS community on multiple levels, and writes for her own personal blog, InsideMyStory and as a patient expert for MultipleSclerosis.net. Laura is the Lead Patient Representative and co-principal investigator for iConquerMS™, a patient powered MS research network. Laura freely admits her Liberal Arts background fuels her interest in patient engagement and empowerment and she struggles with the science of MS. Tags Aaron Boster, infusion, ocrelizumab, Ocrevus, side effects Comments Donna Marie So we are the results, thats the way it has always has to be, good or bad and trial and error! Aren't there any convicts with MS available to try this on? Reply Laura Kolaczkowski Actually rituxan, a form of this drug, has been used over twenty years so we aren't an experiment. How my MS will respond is the big question. -laura Reply Mary McGuiggin, MD with MS Ocrevus is a humanized chimera and rituxan is an animal human chimera- better from the allergic rxn standpoint. Reply Kirsten Cooper That just seemed like a really thoughtless thing to say.. Just because someone has made poor choices in life doesn't constitute using them as our MS experiment dummies. Peace be with you. Reply akhlaw12 I agree!!! How insensitive. What if u or obe of your family members were in jail? Would u feel the same way then? Reply RMA Totally agree. People like Donna Marie think they're better than others. Ugh. Reply Cap That sounds cold and insensitive!So your the type that would approve of doing experimental testing on human beings you deem less valuable? As an ms patient and individual with a criminal history.Your comment shocked me! Reply Kim It’s not a bad persons disease! Wtf! Reply Emil Torres Had first 6 hour infusion of Ocrevus yesterday when should I start seeing the benefits? next one scheduled 7/25 then every 6 months Reply Lisa Hi You're very lucky that you haven't experienced chronic daily nausea since your Ocrevus because although the medicine has helped my walking, this stinks. I have my full dose of 380 mg in November. Have to take stuff everyday for this nausea. The Ocrevus has made me feel much stronger Reply Laura Kolaczkowski That sounds horrible. I've not heard of this side effect lasting. I hoe it gets better, soon. -Laura Reply Lauren Too new. There are differences. My number 1 concern is the cancer scare. Until they can prove that it was not caused by drug. I will stick with Rituxan. Taken from the Are Rituxan and Ocrevus similar argument web page: IMSMP,(world renowned NYC research center on MS) in its March 31 statement, called the number of cancer-affected patients in the Ocrevus-treated trial groups “alarmingly high” — a stark contrast in wording from Genentech. The IMSMP also noted that an early trial of Ocrevus in rheumatoid arthritis was cut short when patients developed life-threatening infections. Reply Theresa That’s my concern also, I have Lupus and MS and my doctor suggestion this drug treatment for me. Cynthia I have done the 2 infusions 2 weeks apart. I am in the 3rd month of theirs first 2 infusions. I have O.A. and the joint pain has been horrendous!! I also, had a blister break out on my shin! I do not think I should continue with it. What do you think? Mehrdad Hi, My wife’s doctor asked her to take Ocrevus next month for the first time. I’d like to know your opinion after taking this for an extended period of time. Thanks Reply Rona 2 years Reply Diane Kramarz I will start my 1st infusion tomorrow. How did you feel the day after? I had serious stomach issues with Tecfidara and so they are trying Ocrevus. I hope I don't have the same issues with this. Reply Jessica K Hello what do you take for your chronic daily nausea? I myself suffer from daily nausea it’s horrible I hate it Reply Pat Crowder Hi, I just started Ocrevus, had my first infusion on Dec 16th and second one on December 30, 2019. Since the infusions, I started to have diarrhea which I experience at least once or twice a day. Has anyone else experience the same problem? Pat C Reply Judith Anderson Hi there yes I ad diarrhoea and so had all the tests. And I mean all the tests ending with a colonoscopy which all proved negative thank goodness. But strangely after the colonoscopy, where they give you stuff to totally clear you out, the diarrhoea subsided to nothing then back to normal toilet routine. I have heard that it can cause gastro problems so maybe the clearing out stuff for the colon sorted it. Also taking a course of antibiotics to clear up any gut issues has been discussed. So if after my next infusion I have diarrhoea I may try that to see if it clears up. I hope yours settles down naturally. Best of luck and contact me if I can help any further. By the way the benefits of Ocrevus for me were worth the stomach problem. I wouldn't consider stop taking it for that at all. Judy x Reply Beth Wilding Just started with the same about 10 weeks after first split infusion. Have felt nauseous but not stopped me working. Walking is slightly better . Pom’s Reply Laura Kolaczkowski I understand it's a good four months or so to see something that would be apparent on clinical exam. So, we wait... -Laura Reply Kristine Visage I am slightly concerned that you have the 2nd half of your infusion scheduled just 9 days after the 1st half. To my knowledge, they are to be 2 weeks apart. Reply Dawn Taylor You are right Reply Judy I am scheduled for my 1st full dose next Friday. Because I had to change from Tysabri had to be without medication for 60 days and my MS got really bad. The first half dose helped some and the second half helped more. I have noticed that getting close I am having problems. Reply Christine I start next week of anxious and praying for positive results Reply Frederick Fennessy I get my first infusion on the 15th. So, I will let everyone know if I get any kind of reaction from it. Reply Pam Dye Like you, I just had my second infusion two weeks ago so it is a waiting game. I note any new signifant or minor changes in my condition. Keep a journal so you can follow up with your doctor. I have PPMS so the changes will be subtle. Good luck with your journey and here's to hoping for positive outcome. Reply Cheryl Pam, I note that your post is from July 19, 2017. I also have PPMS, but just had my first transfusion June 24, 2018. May I ask how you are feeling now nearly a year later? Reply Patricia S Knock My MD said I had to have an active lesions to start the medication! I have had MS since 1990 and just now getting progressively worse. Is it true that you have to have an active lesion to start the medication? Reply Laura Kolaczkowski I have not heard that one .... I do not have active lesions right now and that was not a requirement for me. We know that MS activity happens at multiple layers of the brain and active lesions are just one indicator of progression but don't tell the whole story. You might either have this conversation again with your neurologist or get a second opinion. -Laura Reply JenE That is absolutely not true. I have had ms for 12 years and they have never seen an active lesion. An active lesion, I believe, is what is seen during a relapse phase of RRMS. When you’re not relapsed the lesions don’t light up. Ocrevus is the first Med to shoes results for those of us with progressive forms of ms. Progressive ms without relapses isn’t clearly understood but the damage is thought to be occurring by a different mechanism, not inflammation (which lights up on mri) I was fortunate and got started on Ocrevus pretty quickly. I had my first rounds six months ago with next dose today. I have had no problems with the infusions except fatigue from the Benadryl they give pre-infusion. Since I have had a couple UTIs which happened to me on Gilenya as well and also a couple of cold sores which I rarely had over the past ten years. As far as improvement? I’m cautiously optimistic because I feel I have more stamina. Also I have had falls/ near falls from disequilibrium. I couldn’t turn around quickly without wobbling and couldn’t safely look side to side while walking. I definitely feel that has improved! If you want to try it maybe consider a second opinion?? Good luck! Reply Mehrdad Hi, My wife's doctor asked her to take Ocrevus next month. I'd like to know your opinion after taking this for an extended period of time. Thanks Reply Mary A Servantes No way! Your doc must not be an MS Specialist. The goal is to NEVER see an active lesion as well as get some reversal of symptoms. I was on Tysabri for 12 years and my Neuro forced me off b/c I became JCV positive. So it was Ocrevus or lemtrada. I had no infusion reaction today and got one tax return completed for my first infusion. I feel no different than any other day except they give you 100mg of solumedrol and then benedryl so that was a little different on the system. By the end of my observation time I wasn’t mildly tired any longer from the benedryl. Reply Tanya Patricia, I had both my first two infusions without any new lesions, it all depends on your neurologist. I felt great for a while but when it started to wear off my vision decreased and it was getting difficult to walk. I just had my second ...ot third dose technically and I am feeling ok but it's o my been about 3 weeks out. The big problem is that you can get sick much faster and longer then others with better immune systems. Reply Michele Chadwick No, I have never heard that. I have had MS since 1998 when there were only3 medications for MS and my doctor just said I needed to be on one of them. I chose Avonex and still progressed. Switched to Rebif and did better for 11 years. Started on the ocrelizimab trial 8 years ago I believe and have done fantasticly. Please just get on something to keep your MS stable. Reply Anita Diagnosed with PPMS 2 years ago. I am currently not on any DMT. I have some lesions on brain and none on spine. My issues are left leg foot drop, hyperextended knee, balance, fatigue and heat sensitivity. I can do things as I used to just at a slower pace and with rests in between major tasks. My doctor talked to me about this drug. Advised I would need a spinal tap to get insurance approval. I am excited and reluctant to start any type of drug therapy. I wish you all best of luck and hopefully at some point they will find a cure for this disease! Reply Laura Kolaczkowski I can't understand why you would need a spinal tap done. I've not heard that from anyone - maybe the doctor thinks the tap is needed to prove you really have MS? - Laura Reply Bob Laura, In my experience there are several ways to confirm a DX of MS. Generally you need to have had an attack with in a 3 year period and either a positiive MRI or a positiive spinal tap. Some say if you haven't had an attack but have a positiive spinal tap and MRI you can get the dx Reply Hope Hi! Another fellow patient here. Also a medical student who spends an inordinate amount of time studying our disease. Lumbar punctures are usually performed to confirm diagnosis of MS by the presence of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid. These proteins are quantifiable indicators of systemic humoral immune response (AKA they're proof that your body is attacking itself). Moreover, presence of O-bands in the CSF with absence of them in the blood (serum) indicates that the autoimmune inflammatory response is specifically attacking the myelin in your CNS (rather than non-specifically attacking your whole body, like in cases of lupus or RA). LPs are a lot more commonly used these days to confirm diagnosis of MS, especially when MRI is suggestive, but not definitive. For me, I had T2 periventricular FLAIR hyperintensities present, but it wasn't enough for my docs to say for sure that I had MS. So, they performed an LP, and I had many O-bands present in my CSF, confirming my diagnosis. For those who have obvious definitive plaques present on MRI, the LP may not be necessary. Hope this helps! Reply Debra Rosario My Neuro also made me have Evoked Potentials test to confirm MS. Reply Nini Hi hope I have a personal question How are you dealing with medical school and having MS at the same time going? I’m diagnosed with RRMS. I’m on Ocrevus. I feel going through residency is gonna add up stress and not going to be good for me as I believe stress is a big factor for MS flared. -Nini Reply susan arvan I did meds peds residency 2010-2014 had a exacerbation started on copaxone had several treatment steroid and acthar but graduated on time. . Have been working since with only one week off after reaction to first ocrevus Linda I had to have a spinal tap before taking this drug because I tested positive for JC VIRUS and they needed to rule out PML The spinal fluid was negative for PML and they were able to put me on OCREVUS Reply Jade Hello, I have over 900 lesions in my body. I was in parkland hospital when I was told I have MS . They took 6 testing from my spine . I lost my vision in 09, and they didn’t know why I had lost my vision until they did 6 cat scan. It was because I had over 60 because the doctor stopped counting. I don’t wish this on no one. I’m not even in my 40s yet and I have to have a walker with me all the time. I still smile but it’s hard Sometimes. My oldest son has to drive me to all my appointments . I wish everyone for y’all to stay strong! Reply Polly Sears Hi Anita ! I have had MS for over 35 years, and, have never been on any DMT either. My neurologist is great ( Brigham and Womens MS Clinic ), and, wants the decision to ultimately be mine , after we go over the pros and cons. The breast cancer issue is a major concern. I still walk , altho the past 3 years I do use a cane if going out ( for those darn curbs and cobblestones ! ) His recommendations at this point are Aubagio, or, Ocrevus. I am also a peer support counselor . People that I talk to are very unhappy when taken off Tysabri. Not an option I would take, but , they said they felt totally normal while on it . I just hope we all find the right route while dealing with this strange and unpredictable disease !! Good Luck Every One !! Reply Debra I miss Brighams! Dr Houtchens was great. I only came off Tysabri on her advise due to JC development & went to another then onto Tec. Ugh. Most recently 1 yr drug vacay living in humid Houston:) So now the new drug story starts...Thursday. And Im counting on it. The fatigue is bit much now. Reply Debra Rosario I just had to stop Aubagio due to high liver enzymes, recent exacerbation (he believed this showed it had stopped working after only 1 year), and lost 3/4 of my hair! Trying Ocrevus in few months after prerequisites. Reply Rosie Hi, I need advice, have MS for 21years, currently on Ocrevus, my 2nd infusion is on Friday 18, and don’t know what to do. My walking is wors, balance wors, vision wors. Pls give me your opinion. Rosie Reply Rosalyn D I have had MS for 20 +years and have tried several medicines . This will be my first try of ocredevus or something like that! I am concerned about my possible reaction to it. Any feedback is welcome!! Reply David Swanson Polly, I see that you said you are not on any treatment (at the time of your post) at this time and haven't been for 35 years. Would you mind sharing what you have done? I was diagnosed one year ago with RRMS and at this point was only on Copaxone for 4 months but had a flare and was taken off. I currently am not on any DMT but I am nervous about possible consequences on not using anything as I am 37 years old and I have 8 children, the oldest being 14. Thank you for any help possible. Reply Mary A Servantes I declined the spinal tap when I was in the dx process and have never had one. If you have brain lesions and MS Signs and symptoms, you have MS. Why do they think you have PP? Did you ever get any DMT that didn’t work? I will say that before I started tysabri 12 years ago I had many of your symptoms as well as terrible vertigo. Ty reversed most for me. Is your doctor an MS Specialist and have you gotten a second opinion? I ask because PPMS has so many treatment restrictions. Have you had a 3 or 5 day course of IV solumedrol to see if that allevited any symptoms? Reply BRENDA BLAKE I completed my 2nd infusion June 27, 2017. I have minor itching, less than with Techfidera. I had nausea with Techfidera also. No nausea and less itching is an improvement. Choosing not to doubt this new treatment will keep me from anymore relapses. Reply merlin Well we will find out next week hope to see some results but we all have to be patient We MS people know about that 2001 when I got diagnosed and hoping this is the answer.Thanks for your input on this,Merlin Reply Nancy Rossin Had my first dose of Ocrevis yesterday, very uneventful, second dose already scheduled, no problems with first dose good or bad ??? Reply nancy ungar I have ppms, edss about 7. I had my first dose 5 days ago. The ocrevus produced spasms in my arms and shoulders, and especially in my bladder. They disappeared when the 50mg of benadryl rendered me unconscious. When they woke me up to leave I was too weak to raise a finger. Luckily my aide is strong because lifting me was was like handling lead spaghetti. The bladder spasms continued until I took a valium. I have been very weak, tired and thirsty but today I am almost back to my usual weak, low stamina self. FYI, i am often part of the .2% to get side effects. Reply Dave I had my 4th injection two days ago. Never a problem with Ocrevus until now. I’m weak, breathing not quite normal and I got up to urinate 10 times last night. My balance is off too and I itch. I’m using my cane again and I walk very slow. I plan to call my neurologist this morning when his office opens. Something is not right. Reply Irene Berman-Levine I find the discussion very helpful and thank all for participating. I have RRMS and have done very well for someone who has been diagnosed 16 years ago. I LOVED Tysabri but my viral load is higher than Dr. Jeffrey Greenstein has ever seen (around 3.9 - repeated several times) so he advised changing. At that time I changed to Copaxone as we were waiting for Ocrevus approval. Had MAJOR MAJOR relapse after six months on Copaxone so he put me back on Tysabri. Getting my first infusion of Ocrevus in September and I cannot wait. (doing my six week wash-out now so nothing for six weeks). I commute two-hours to Dr. Greenstein in Philadelphia, as he is FABULOUS and has kept me functional for 16 years. However, someone told me I was not going to feel like taking a train, a subway and then a bus to his office. So I hate to waste other people's time but I will probably take the train there and then family will drive in towards the end to pick me up. Was wondering if anyone else had full energy afterwards that they would have the energy to commute home? Reply Mary A Servantes I know this was an old post but I didn’t see any responses... I had first dose today and with an extra cup of coffee in me that I nursed for. Couple of hours before I left (I was concerned about the benedryl pre med), I was completely normal driving home in Houston rush hour traffic (meaning it took twice the time). Reply Aruna Hi I will have first infusion on April 16th 2018 and I’m little scared. After reading your comments feel much better. Reply Cheryl Aruna, I just had my first infusion two days ago ( 6/29) I have had more questions answered here in this blog in one day then all the questions I have asked in the last couple months while waiting for the first infusion. Not sure about anyone else but the so called' Nurse Navigators' are a joke. I have called and left many messages which have never been returned. Reply Linda Jordan I had my first round of Ocrevus on 7/14 and 7/28/17. No issued whatever during the infusion process but I was given a 500mg Tylenol along eoth 100mg of Benadryl and the needed cortisone meds. My only symptom so far is fatigue and waking up tired. My leg spasms prior to the 1st infusion were ridiculous. My toes still remain numb but overall I feel better as the infusions seem to have calmed things down a great deal. Still some weakness in my legs but I am now able to walk further and am able to do things for a little longer period of time. My next and full dose is scheduled for 1/26/2018. I'm excited and also anxiously playing the waiting game. Reply Anita Wish you would let us know how it goes Reply Sandy Jeffries I am having my 3rd dose of Ocrevus next week. I love the energy it gives me for the first 3/4 months but then the last 2 months are awful!! I feel extremely tired and my legs are worse than ever. Does anyone else have this with their treatment? Reply Leanne Hi, Sandy! I’m in the exact same spot as you (including the legs)...great for the first part of it, but I feel like I wish the meds would last longer. Reply Cindy Sandy & Leanne, Hello. The last month before my next Ocrevus infusion has been quite difficult. I believe each day I can tell it is harder to walk, balance gets worse, thinking clearly is more difficult, fatigue and weakness more and more pronounced daily. It is rather frightful. Have had MS since 1992, but it never affected me that I noticed until 2013. Very lucky. It's called benign MS. But plaques and black hole(s) have damaged my brain and spine. But back to the Ocrevus, I read another person saying it may be worth the agony of one awful month for 5 good months. A grim reality that I may, too, accept. Next dose is in 3 days. I pray it is true that I will bounce back for 5 months. I felt strong and capable after my first full dose of Ocrevus until the beginning of my sixth month. I am looking forward to another dose! Reply Kelli Sharp Scheduled for my first OCRE infusion in the morning. Prepared for the worst, hoping for the best. Copaxone injections aren't working anymore and JC virus is present. I just want to feel normal again. Whatever that means. Seems such a thing of my past, I don't really remember what normal feels like. This fatigue and grey cloud that hovers over me daily can go away any time now. Wish me luck. ? Reply Karen My cousin is going for her first infusion of Ocrevis today. She is newly diagnosed and this will be the first drug she is trying. It was very helpful reading all of your reviews. My question is, does this drug slow down PMS or just help with the symptoms of this disease? Will she ever be able to function once again on her own? Reply Paula I'm very concerned about the infusion reactions that I'm reading about. There have been many going to the ER either f Ron infusion site or hours later. The PML in Germany is concerning as well. I have knowledge that this patient had MRI five days prior to last Tysabri and had two doses of Ocrevus in April 2017 and the MRI in May showed PML. The general public doesn't have this info...why not? Back to the infusion reactions, my Neuro also stated that a US patient died hours after first Ocrevus infusion. Again patients are owed full transparency when it comes to risks and data from the large numbers seeking this treatment. My info comes from a very high profile MS Specialist. Reply Jared I think you need to check your sources of information. If someone died in the US from Ocrevus it would have hit the news. Perhaps you are a conspiracy theorist but I don't buy it. Sort of like the "doctor" and everyone who told me its not MS its chonic Lyme... yea ok... Anyway I had my first round of Ocrevus yesterday and I'm doing just fine. I'm not saying it cant have bad side effects or someone might not die; everyone reacts differently. Just don't buy everything you hear. Reply J I know that's not true. You cannot take steroids while you're on tysabri. For precisely PML reasons. Reply Laura Kolaczkowski AS I understand it, Tysabri users are prone to more infections. Steroids also make a person more prone to infections. When you put the two together, it still adds up to prone to more infections. This doesn't mean you can't take steroids while on Tysabri, but the doctor should monitor the person closer for all oportunistic innfections, including PML. Reply Becky Armstrong I take 1000mg of methylprednisolone every month right before my tysabri. Whoever told you you cant take steroids while tysabri is extremely misinformed. I see one of the leading USA specialists for MS. I cant see him having put this treatment plan into action if it was dangerous or not allowed. You can develop PML if you dont have MS or any other disease. As long as you are JCV negative your chances for pml are no greater than the average person. Reply Linda Walker Had my initial two doses of Ocrevus in July. Now the waiting starts! I'm afraid to admit that I actually an two weeks with no issues. Can that be? Looking forward to 6 month dose to really measure a difference. Trying to stay positive until then... Thanks to everyone that shared their experiences, it really helps. Keep it up--PLEASE! Reply Tim Bossie That's amazing Linda! All of us at MSNews hope that you continue to do well on the new medication. :) Reply Lori Gutzmann Hello, It's time for me to decide on a med change. I started with Copaxone when I was first diagnosed in 2005. I then changed to a MS study med in 2011. Was doing well with that. however my lung function was getting affected so they decided to take me off of the study. So I look for something that will not have any ref to ill affects to my breathing. So, now I have time to do some research on me. what med. trying this out is new for me here at this site. so ty for your time. Reply Trisha M I started on Ocrevus 9/25/2017 I have to go back for my second dose on 10/13/2017 i'm really looking forward to seeing some changes around my six month dosage. If anyone else have any advice or stories and feedback I would greatly appreciate it so I would know about what to expect Reply Margo casey I had my first dose ocrevus yesterday - easy with benedryl-prednisone. And no side effects. It is really great to read comments - please keep them going. Margo Reply Patsy Roy I had my first infusion of Ocrevus 2 weeks ago. I had no side affects. I was suppose to get my second infusion today, but I have several other health problems and decided not to continue the Ocrevus. Is that a dangerous thing to do? Reply Shauna Abney Completed my 2nd half dose on September 29, 2017. The nausea, up to this point, has been annoying but tolerable with medication. Today, however, it has been horrible! Dry heaves and stomach pain accompanied it this morning and everything I try to eat makes me even more nauseated! I hope this goes away soon!!! Reply Raymond so, she "thinks" she feels better... wow, what a statement Reply Donna I am a rare case. Currently on 44th dosage of Tysabri and am somewhat JCV positive (.38, .42, latest was .21). Being on Tysabri gives me such anxiety, makes me gain weight and makes me so tired. I can’t have steroids (gave me PRES syndrome) so an immunologist decided I would take immunosuppressants with the Ocrevus instead. Was very excited until they arrived and I read they can cause PRES! Now I don’t know what to do. I really want off Tysabri desperately. My doctor got angry that I got a second opinion and has told me to go use the other doctor. He threw a temper tantrum like a 5 year old. He said that more and more patients are ending up in the hospital with breathing problems and even the nurses administering the Ocrevus which makes no sense. The other doctor said he has a couple of patients that take it without steroids without problems. Any advice from the experienced? Reply Frank Takacs I'm going in tomorrow at 7am for second treatment no side affects after first half dose just became depressed and tired spent a bunch of time in bed I usually get up early and go Hunting at 5am.i don't know if its my life falling apart around me or if its from the ocrevus. hopefully this will not be a forever thing I was fired at work lost my fiancé and having trouble staying happy in life. Reply dcgirl53 Sorry Frank, I had a bad case on depression on Tysabri. I wound up going into my neurologist office and requesting an increase in my anti-depression medication. Within two weeks I was back in the saddle and doing what I needed to do in my life. I knew I was depressed because I just couldn't pull myself out of bed and do anything. House was a mess, resigned out of the blue from my job without another job. Missed appointments and what not. I take Venlafaxine. Don't let yourself go untreated. Depression is a real side effect from MS. I just had my first dose of Ocrevus today and all went well. Reply Kelly Fassino First dose today! No reaction and the Benadryl knocked me out so I slept mostly. Had 4 month wash out from Tysabri waiting on insurance. Very hopeful! I have extreme fatigue and weakness in left leg and heat sensitivity. I just want my energy back!! Reply Rebecca Quintana I had my first dose of Octevus yesterday. I had. Normal reaction of itchiness and burning in my throat. They gave me Benadryl in the midst of my infusion and the side effects went away. I also had a fever and that went awa ay as well I feel great today and can’t wait until I get my next infusion in two weeks!! I have been on Tysabri before and was super upset when I had to discontinue due to being positive with the JCV virus. I M going to be positive this drug will work! Reply diana keenan I read through all of your questions and answers "thank you" for that. I have had MS since 1998 and was referred to Providence MS Center because my MS in my brain has doubled with lesions from 2013 to now. I have been approved for this new drug, went through all the tests and OK to go. I am not a person who gets scared but I am still having trouble deciding to start this drug. People mention cancer being a scare but I have seen very little about this in my information. I think I am going to try it because I am 61 now and feel I have nothing to lose with how I have progressed what is the alternative but to get worse right? Reply Lady Bug I was scheduled and ready to go and start my first infusion of ocrevus. Then the doctor called and said that 4 people have died in the last 30 days within 48 hours of their first ocrevus infusion. Does anyone have any further information? Please help Reply Lady Bug Accidentally spelled my email incorrectly The new one is [email protected] Reply Cheri Mores I was diagnosed with MS on October 12th. I will start my 1st infusion of Ocrevus on December 19th. How long until you start to feel better? I am exhausted now...will it get worse? Reply Dcgirl53 I had my first dose of Ocrevus yesterday. It went well, I had itching so they stopped it for about 20 minutes and then restarted with no issues. I haven’t felt this good in years. I woke up feeling amazing. It’s almost to good to be true I switched from Tysabri. My walking had progressed to a horrible state while on Tysabri. I am/was using a rollator. I haven’t needed this morning. Fingers crossed this keeps working! Reply Lynn L I am waiting to get set up with Ocrevus at our local infusion center. I have been on every MS Medication, besides Tysabri, my doctor said I was a risk for this medication. I am unable to have any steroids as I react severely to them. I also tend to be that patient that has the rarest side effect from medication. Has anyone received the Ocrevus without the steroids? Just wondering if there was an increase of side affects. I will take the Benedryl, however I am on Allegra already for a skin issue that I have. I hope this works to alleviate my extreme fatigue, and weakness in my arm & leg. Reply Peggy Wade I WILL get my third treatment in April The only side effects I get is itching I take benadryl that is the only side effect that I have had. Reply Chuck spong Had my first infusion of ocrevus yesterday. Tired after pre-med but slept well. Going to the gym today.ms for 12 years and I've gone through the changes of med along the way. 6 years rebif,1 year tysabri, 4 years giLena and been clean for 1 year in anticipation of ocrevus. I'm excited. I'm hoping for improvement at whatever level. Reply Sarah Thanks for all the transparency in your posts! I have had Ms for 6 years. Started on Avonex for 11/2yrs then switched to for 41/2 I tested poitive for JC virus 2 years ago and was pressures by dr to switch for a few years. Bbut resisted Gelinya and “waited” for this new infusion drug.I cut down to 8 week infusions,lowered my jc but started having new symptoms so went back to every 4 wks Oct.2017 wile waiting for Ocrevous approval.in January when they tried to access my port it wasnt working properly. I went for a dye test and after ten attempts ( no kidding) to acesss they saw on xray machine it “flipped”. I had it removed and opted not to replace since Ocrevous is only every 6 months. I got my first infusion of Ocrevous yesterday. Concerned that i went from Tysabri / Ocrevous with no “wash out period” like some have referred to. I took premeds/steriods before. I didnt have to stop at any time. I started itching right after they stopped my drip. Was given more Benadryl in my iv. Man that stuff knocked me off my socks! Could hardly muster energy to walk/ function and take care of my family for next 6 hours. Then got my second wind.Just woke up all itchy again 12 hrs later. Took 50mg of Benadryl. After reading some of these posts I am concerned about the risk of breast cancer (1st iv heard) and always fearful of pml. I feel a real discount in my health treatment since i drive three hours to nearest MS clinic in Denver and then have infusions in my hometown. Yes i got the. Info pack but no one has gone over these “life treatening” side effects. I am only 35 and do not want my family to loose anymore than what MS has stolen! I have my next dose in two weeks. I have to keep my faith in Lord that this will all work out! Reply muere molino de aire fabricante You really make it appear really easy with your presentation but I to find this matter to be really one thing which I believe I would never understand. It kind of feels too complex and very large for me. I am having a look ahead to your next post, I'll try to get the hold of it! Reply Judy I am waiting to hear from those getting the second round (full dose) now that most of us had the initial 2 doses at least six months ago. Where are those comments? I’m due for round 2 in April and would like to hear how the full dose at once is tolerated. Reply Dusty Rhodes I'll jump in. I am on Tecfidera now, having been on Tysabri. I shared the same med Tysabri and neurologist with someone else. That person contracted PML and survived. I contact the drug company and inquired, they said no one had contracted PML. A few days later the drug company called and wanted the name. I told them HIPAA laws did not allow me to disclose this. It was never in the news. The person that contracted PML has been devastated by the disease. I appreciate everyone's comments I am JC virus positive with a high index and my white count is below .5 so I will most likely be going to the this med. I am new to the St Louis MO area. If you live in this area and have a neurologist you use and like them please reply with their name. Thank you Reply Michelle Schroll Hi, everyone. I just wanted to pass along my experience. I had my first 300mg dose of Ocrevus yesterday morning. I did have some discomfort in my throat. They slowed the drip down for approx 30 min and it went away. Bumped the drip back up and all was fine. I left the hospital feeling fantastic; a little sleepy from the Benadryl, but nothing major. I woke up this morning feeling fantastic!! I am sure it is the steroids...or maybe not, but the pain in my feet is probably 90% better and my hands as well. I am extremely excited about this new drug and feel it is a real game changer with we MSers. I cannot wait for my second dose and then my first full dose. I am hearing incredible stories from people and praying I, and everyone else, will have the same outcome with this drug. I am super excited at the chance of just feeling normal again. God bless you all!! Michelle Reply Kyle Curtis I'm due for my second treatment this Friday. I haven't noticed any big changes, but I do feel better. Anything is better than how I felt before. I think I might be depressed, but never been before so I don't know. That's what my neurologist thinks. Just have to keep moving. I'm excited at possibly getting back or close to who I use to be. Reply George My name is George and I ppms. My first signs was when I had my daughter and my wiener died lol of all things! I just got the approval for a penile implant and my wife and I can’t wait. I’m only 32 and refuse to be a 30 year old virgin ! Reply Rachael I have ppms had my 2nd, full dose, ocrebus infusion 2 months ago. My reactions were so bad that that this post seems like a paid advertisement. It's nearly 8 weeks out and I've been on 4 rounds on prednisone, 1.round of prednisolone, and 2 1000 unit IV corticosteroid! All to treat my reactions. I've now met 5 others with ppms that are responding almost exactly the same as me. The joint pain is unreal, burning in my hands and feet. ALL of my mucosal membranes burned and peeled over and over! Resulting in bloody noses and severe pain and discomfort. I break out in hives and rashes over and over. And let me tell you about that itch most people have, its everywhere! In your ears, back of your throat, between your fingers and toes, the tip of your nose. You cannot get away from it and its overwhelming! The fatigue, on top of the already diagnosed chronic fatigue, leaves you literally bedridden. I've developed ulcers and am now on meds for that. I have corticosteroid creams for my skin reactions. They had to change my asthma meds to accommodate the bronchial issues I now have. This drug is no joke! And my doctor just says we dont know what will happen with the 3rd infusion, it could get better. How about no! Of the 5 people I've met with the same reactions, 2 are not longer walking!!! I'm not willing to sacrifice my mobility for a maybe. I'd rather have no meds at all, than ones that are trying to kill me. - Rachael Reply Lizeth My mom’s pain and fatigue have been at their worst. 1st full infusion was April 6th and no improvement in sight. She has SPMS... may not get that 2nd full dose... =/ Reply Brian Casey I just finished my 3rd full Ocrevus infusion in July. After the steriods wore off I experienced almost all the same reactions. Your post is the first I have read similar to myself. Symptoms since 2000, diagnosed 2005, started LDN, then betaseron, was told I had AB blockage and would be on a pacemaker...then genelya (before it was approved) which gave me occular edema, then tysabri then I became jcv pos., to tecfidera to rituxumab to ocrevus. Weird thing is my AB blockage no longer shows up on a cardiogram...scam? Or just business. I guess I am trying to say that we are the guinea pigs in the world of "practicing medicine". My neuro is awesome, but they are human, well some of them. She is very open on what works for one may not work for another. I personally think ocrevus is not the drug for me and she has no issue with that. We know how our bodies feel better than any Dr. does. Think I will let time tell, no DMT's for me til at least next July as I have never felt worse than ocrevus has made me feel. Good news I'm still walking, not too straight or fast. Just walking. Pain is what we live with daily, After my dentist pulled my tooth he called that evening to see if I was ok or needed more pain meds. I explained that I wake up daily in more pain than that. Most people don't understand that cause a lot of us look just fine. Thank you Rachael for your words, maybe someday our paths may cross. Brian Reply Rona I’m happy to say it’s made a huge difference in my life. The most active of side effects for me has been my diminished strength in my legs. My knees seem to buckle as soon as I take 2 steps. I use a walker around the house to avoid falling. I fell a few times due to an increased foot drop after O. If anyone else feels this or have a solution, I would much appreciate it. Reply Rona I started physio therapy, I was told that she’ll be able to get me comfortable using my cane only, and I asked if she could help me walk with no assistance? She said: “ we’ll see”. ? Good luck to all. Stay ?❤️ We all got this! Reply Steven F. Correll I had my 6 month Ocrevus infusion (full dose) last week. The infusion went well and there were no reactions during the process. I have been slightly more tired than usual but that has grown less with each passing day. I was diagnosed with RRMS 20 years ago at age 38. I began daily Copaxone injections and my relapses were held in check. However, I have transitioned to secondary progressive MS and my walking has declined significantly. My MRI results show me to be “clinically stable.” And yet my walking declines. My most successful tool for combating the effects of the disease has been regular exercise and a healthy diet. My goal with Ocrevus is to slow disease progression as much as possible. Too soon to tell for now. Reply Theresa Peterson I had my 1st Ocrevus infusion Monday. I did have some pain in my throat and then my ear itched horribly as well I did get hives here and there which quickly went away after the infusion was over. I think the steroid kept me awake for most of the night Monday,but I also have huge stressors in my life. I did get good sleep last night, but now I have nausea and stomach discomfort, I hope this goes away soon. Reply Cheryl Theresa, you are the first person to mention being awake all the following night, just like what I had happen to me! I just had my 1st. half infusion on 6/26/18. It is nice to be able to read and find someone else who is experiencing part of what you are! Reply Phyllis Bianco Same here! Thank you for posting your experience. Be well. Reply Kelley Has anyone else experienced worsened heat sensitivity since taking this drug. Heat sensitivity has always been an issue for me but since starting this drug it's gotten alarmingly worse. Reply Cheryl Kelley, honestly I was bothered by the heat sensitivity terribly. That never ending hot-flash type until about 2-3 weeks before my 1st. infusion. I don't know if we are suppose to say this or if anyone else has even done this but I have been using topically some essential oils ( Frankincense and Helichrysum) and whether it is coincedence, mind over matter, or just because I want something to work badly enough, but the heat sensitivity has been way better and now I am hoping it improves even more. Reply akhlaw12 I was diagnosed with MS (RRMS) in June 2005. I've gone from being in a wheelchair for 3 years and having to go on Social Security disability to walking without any assistive devices and working full time again. I've been on Copaxone (too many skin reactions and i hated the daily injections) to Avonex (I hated having the flu ALL weekend for TWO years) to trying Ocrevus. My 1st 1/2 dose was June 29th. I had some itching, nausea and fatigue. I took more Benadryl and was sleepy for two days. My 2nd 1/2 dose was July 13th. I had some itching, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea,leg tremors and leg weakness. I have no appetite and every time I think of getting up, my mind and body says "please, just stay down lady!" I took Ocrevus to see if it could help with my main debilitating MS symptoms (fatigue, cognitive issues, and pain). I'm in between deciding whether to keep working or retire on disability (but I'm only 48 yrs old). **If anyone has been in THAT dilemma before, tell me how u made the decision.** My functioning capacity test says I should not be working but it's such a delicate issue for me because I'm SUPER independent so i would rather work (but i also want to FEEL better while working). I guess I'll see if Ocrevus helps me and THEN make a decision on the working vs not working issue soon. GREAT health to everyone!! Reply Patti You will positively know when you can no longer work. I worked as long as I could. Then one day it just came to me that I had to retire early. Now I do not regret retiring earlier. Listen to your body. Reply Jacqueline Farquharson I'm going for my first half dose of Ocrevus on 7/23/18 (2nd half dose scheduled for 8/3/18 because I can't do it on 8/6/18). I'm hopeful that it will be my "miracle" drug. I NEVER want to have the MS hug again or to experience the MS FOG again. I've only been diagnosed since 6/12/17 and Copaxone wasn't working as designed because I keep getting new symptoms. Wish me luck! I'm wishing good things for everyone. Reply Megan Stokes I am scheduled for my 1st round of Ocrevus infusion on Sept 13,2018. After reading all of these stories I am seriously reconsidering the decision to go from 40 mg shots of Copaxone to 6 mo infusions of Ocrevus. Reply Dorothy My doctor wants me to go on Ocrevus. I am presently on Compaxon 3times a week. I am not sure i should change. I am confliceted. I hae RRMS for 10/2005. Has anyone useed the oral medication. I am scared to go on Ocrevus. Any help would be appreiated. Reply Jennifer Dorothy - I used Aubagio which is taken as a pill daily. I took it for maybe 7 months or so. The main side effect for me was hair loss and was very noticeable. There was no improvement on my MRI, lesions were still occurring. I switched to Ocrevus and have had the first two treatments and one six months later. I will have another MRI in February to see if Ocrevus is helping. Reply Mary Megan, I went from 40 mg of Copaxone to infusions of Ocrevus. Copaxone worked pretty well for me, though after three years, my MRI indicated disease progress. I saw new research which evidenced that more powerful protection of the brain, early in the disease produced better outcomes long term, and so when my doctor recommended Ocrevus, I was eager to try it. My first dose was on July 27 and my second dose was August 10. I had a mild itchiness reaction on my arms during the first infusion, but no reaction to the second. My only side effect in the past three weeks has been increased thirst. I wouldn't tell you that you certainly should switch medications, but that I just did what you are considering. Here is an address to link to that research: https://www.mscenter.org/education/seminars-workshops/presentations The sixth video from the top is an explanation of why it's important to reduce inflammation immediately. Reply Mary I have switched from Copaxone to Ocrevus. I have only completed the first two half doses. I decided I wanted to switch when I saw a presentation of research that said how important immediate reduction of inflammation is in regards to outcomes for disability from MS progression. The sixth video from the top at the following week address explains this finding: https://www.mscenter.org/education/seminars-workshops/presentations Reply Veronica Hi I am wondering if anyone has experienced severe cramps in there calves after receiving Ovrevus? My friend has MS and it appears that after the second round of Ocrevus she suffers from debilitating cramps in her calves. Her doctor wants to refer her to a pain management clinic and that concerns me. Reply Craig I have been getting them in both calves mostly when I am lying down. I had round two in September of 2018. With that said I always had cramps in left leg during rest? Reply Khadijatu Lindsay I had my first half dose of ocrevus 8/6 and finished my second half of the first dose on 8/20. I feel weaker than before I started the medicine. I have been experiencing inner ear, throat and sharp head pains but on my left side. My throat feels dry and sore. Mainly at night when I'm trying to sleep. I know it is still early but these are my experiences. I'm hopeful that things will begin to get better for me within these 6 months as I wait to have my 2nd dose. My suggestion is for you all to keep a positive attitude, stay prayed up and change your diet to a plant based one. Be blessed! Reply Debra Rosario I’m allergic to steroids. Does anyone have experience w/infusion w/just Benydrl? Reply Lizzy I just finished part 2 of my first Ocrevus infusion. That 50mg of Benedryl, 500mg of Solumedrol, and 650mg acetaminophen is something else. No problems with the infusion today. 2 weeks ago I did feel like I had trouble swallowing a bolus of food, but that could have been related to the anticholinergic effects (dry mouth) of the Benedryl. Also my fingers (left hand only) became tingly for 30 min. I guess that was enough to pre-medicate me with 500 mg iv solumedrol vs the 100mg push the first time. My biggest complaint wad the RN's total disregard for my privacy when asking me to say what my current meds were in front of so many other people. Not her fault, though, as the infusion center packs them in like sardines. The good part was the view...big picture windows overlooking a pasture with horses. Reply Michele I am digesting the comments and thank you so much- i toonam very gisitant being a borderline JC Carrier and NO RELAPSES but New lesion. After 10 yrs on CO. Here’s is info I pulled on PMLband Germany: 2017/10. A person in Germany treated with Roche Holding AG’s new multiple sclerosis drug Ocrevus has been diagnosed with an often-deadly brain infection after switching from another medication earlier this year, the Swiss drugmaker said on Wednesday. Roche said it was investigating a case of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient previously being treated for three years with Biogen Inc’s Tysabri and who had received a single dose of Ocrevus in February. Roche is trying to determine the source of the illness but MS drugs that suppress the immune system can increase the risk of serious infections. Ocrevus was approved in the United States in March. Roche said the case of the rare brain disease that is usually fatal or disabling was reported as a carry-over from Tysabri, also known as natalizumab, by the physician who had been treating the patient. Biogen issued a statement that made no mention of the possible Tysabri connection to the case. "Biogen is aware that a patient taking Ocrevus has been diagnosed with PML, and we are currently assessing the information to confirm the reported PML," Biogen spokesman Matt Fearer said in a statement. He added that there are many unknowns around the safety of long-lasting drugs of this type "including occurrence and management of opportunistic infections."... Roche has said no PML cases emerged during its trials of Ocrevus, but the company included warnings to patients taking the medication that there was a risk they could get the disease. Reply Kristi Today I had my first 1/2 dose.. A hour and 1/2 in my throat started to itch. They started me on a Pepcid drip. 10 mins in my throat closed closed and I couldn’t breathe. They gave me a shot of EPI in my thigh and I passed out. They gave me two more EPIs n more steroids and I started to breathe again. The rapid response team transported me to the ER and monitored me for the the next 6 hours. I knew the risks going in. Now we will see where I go from here ?. Reply Paul Myres I started early on the new drug Ocrevus. I have had four infusion and that will be it. Since I’ve started Ocrevus I’ve developed several significant health issues. Upper respiratory congestion (persistent cough for over a year), CAT scan shows crystallization of my lungs, two kidney stones (1 a year), UTI that required 4 days in the hospital, and marked reduction in my mobility. I would caution people to listen to your body and be careful what you take. I am going to try the Mayzent and see what happens. Good luck to you all. Reply Tony Rooney Just finished my 2nd dose of Ocrevuus a few weeks ago. I was diagnosed on the day of 9/11 so I won't forget that in a hurry. I started with Rebif for 2 years & then onto Copaxone for 2 years & then Tysabri for 13 years & 155 trouble free Infusions later. I'm onto Ocrevus now & just had my umpteenth Brain MRI last week that showed no new lesions; that makes it 17+ years without any changes. Reply Fran My husband received 2 infusions of ocrevus in June, did well, no reactions at all. About 3 weeks ago, 21/2 months post infusion, he developed a rash, more like acne type pustules. He never had any skin problems before. Dermatologist gave him antibiotic cream, didn’t work, cortisone, didn’t work, now we’re awaiting biopsy results. It has popped up on his chest and shoulders and every day it is getting worse especially on his face. Since ocrevus is the only thing that was introduced into his system , I’m kind of thinking it could be the culprit. Has anyone else had anything similar happen? Reply Gol Hi Fran, What was the results of your husband biopsy? Reply Tom Have MS and bladder cancer. Doctor still pushing the Ocrevuus. Told me only a problem is with Brest cancer. Not sure what to do but tried of feeling like crap. Reply Marie Just had first Ocrevus infusion January 21, 2021, and second is due Feb 4th. My experience was itching ears, scratching throat, cough, halfway into infusion. The infusion nurse slowed the drip, and within a several minutes the itching eased. I was very tired, however, I had been washing out of Tysabri for ten weeks and was feeling weakness and balance issues worsening. So, this current tiredness maybe due to SPMS symptoms and Tysabri washout. Wishing the first 24hrs, my face, neck, and chest because flushed, short of breath, and I was very tired. I took two rounds of 25mg Benadryl. Next day the issues were better. Today, Sunday January 24th, I feel very tired, and both legs are weak, especially when first getting up. I am using cane. Anyone else have this issue of weakness. I am hopeful that this medication will work for me, as this is my third DMD. Newly rediagnosed with SPMS, I have learned that little may help. But, I will take little, over nothing. Reply Gol I realized this thread stopped round two years ago. I just got my 2nd half dose of Ocrevus today and it went well. Please keep sharing your experiences. It was really helpful to read this thread. I was diagnored with RRMS in Feb 2021 and seems like it was pretty new. I am a swimmer and I am concerned going back to the pool while on Ocrevus for possible infections due to my suppressed immune system now...But taking swimming away from me is going to be worst. Thoughts? Reply Maureen Hi I'm wondering if anyone has had any change to the texture of their hair. I have had 3 doses of Ocrevus, the last being 2 weeks ago. I have never experienced any side effects no itching or burning but the texture of my hain has changed and become very coarse. Thanks, Maureen Reply Leave a comment Fill in the required fields to post. Your email address will not be published. Your Name Your Email Your Comment Post Comment
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