Novartis' Kesimpta Goes Up Against Roche's Ocrevus In MS

 
• By Jessica Merrill
  
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The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody was approved by the US FDA for relapsing multiple sclerosis, bringing a new treatment to the crowded therapeutic area – with the benefit of self-administration. 

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Novartis prepares to face off with Roche in multiple sclerosis with Kesimpta • Source: Shutterstock

Novartis AG's Kesimpta (ofatumumab) could be a fierce new rival to Roche Holding AG's fast-growing Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) in relapsing multiple sclerosis, bringing a similar mechanism of action with monthly self-administration. Kesimpta, a fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for relapsing MS on 20 August, after an initial run as Arzerra for chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Novartis plans to launch Kesimpta in September, joining the crowded multiple sclerosis field, which includes the company's own oral medications...

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