Reports have emerged indicating that a person with MS taking
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab, Genentech, a member of the Roche Group) has developed PML (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, a rare viral infection of the brain that often leads to death or severe disability). The company has confirmed that this person had received one dose of Ocrevus, and had previously taken
Tysabri (natalizumab, Biogen) for several years. No additional information about the individual’s condition has been released.
PML is caused by the re-activation of a virus called the JC (John Cunningham) virus, a common virus to which many people have been exposed. PML has emerged in people using other MS therapies, most notably Tysabri, but it has also occurred in people taking
Gilenya (fingolimod, Novartis AG) and
Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate, Biogen).
This is the first reported case of PML in someone taking Ocrevus. Because PML has occurred in people taking therapies similar to Ocrevus, this therapy’s
prescribing information and medication guide contain a warning regarding the possible occurrence of PML.
Symptoms of PML are diverse and can be similar to MS symptoms. For this reason individuals should be alert to any new or worsening symptoms and report them promptly to their MS healthcare provider.
Learn more about the risk factors and symptoms of PML here.
Individuals who have concerns about this report should discuss it with their MS healthcare providers.
If and when there is additional information or recommendations for people taking Ocrevus or other MS medications, the National MS Society will share it as soon as possible.
Ocrevus is a trademark of Genentech, a member of the Roche Group.
Gilenya is a registered trademark of Novartis AG.
Tysabri is a registered trademark of Biogen.
Tecfidera is a registered trademark of Biogen.