Ofatumumab

Products

Ofatumumab was approved in 2009 as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution for leukemia treatment (Arzerra). In 2020, a solution for injection was approved in the United States for MS treatment (Kesimpta).

Structure and properties

Ofatumumab is a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody produced by biotechnological methods. It has a molecular mass of 146 kDa.

Effects

Ofatumumab (ATC L01XC10) has immunosuppressive and cytolytic properties. The effects are due to binding to the surface antigen CD20, which is found on B lymphocytes. This leads to lysis (destruction) of the cells. The half-life is in the range of 16 days. Ofatumumab binds to the same target as rituximab (MabThera), but to a different binding site.

Indications

For the treatment of remitting forms of multiple sclerosis (Kesimpta). For the treatment of patients with progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL, Arzerra).

Dosage

According to the SmPC. Kesimpta is administered as a subcutaneous injection and Arzerra is administered as an infusion.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Active hepatitis B infection

Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

Other immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, injection reactions, and administration site reactions. Ofatumumab may increase the risk for infectious diseases.