Briumvi vs Ocrevus are two important medicines for treating multiple sclerosis (MS). Both treatments are effective at managing MS and improving patients’ quality of life. They help reduce relapses, which are times when symptoms get worse.
Both Briumvi and Ocrevus can cause side effects, like reactions during treatment and infections, but serious problems are uncommon. Briumvi is given through an IV every six months, while Ocrevus is injected under the skin in about 10 minutes. The yearly cost for Briumvi is around $59,000, while Ocrevus costs about $78,858.
This blog post aims to compare Briumvi and Ocrevus in simple terms. We will look at how well they work, their safety, how they are given, and their costs. The goal is to help patients and caregivers make informed choices about MS treatments.
What are Briumvi vs Ocrevus
Briumvi and Ocrevus are both medicines that help treat multiple sclerosis (MS) by targeting a specific type of immune cell called B cells. Ocrevus was approved by the FDA on March 28, 2017, and is used for adults with relapsing forms of MS and primary progressive MS. It helps reduce the number of relapses and slows down the progression of disability. In studies, Ocrevus cut the annual relapse rate by about 46% compared to other treatments.
Briumvi, approved in December 2022, is also used for relapsing forms of MS. It works similarly to Ocrevus but is designed to be given in a shorter time, making it more convenient for patients. Both drugs aim to improve the lives of people with MS by targeting the cells that cause nerve damage.
Briumvi and Ocrevus How Do They Work
Briumvi is a medicine that targets special immune cells called CD20-positive B cells. These cells can cause issues in diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). When Briumvi is given, it attaches to these B cells and helps the body destroy them. This reduces inflammation and can improve MS symptoms.
Ocrevus also targets CD20-positive B cells, just like Briumvi. Both medicines lower these cells to help treat MS. However, Ocrevus can also affect another type of immune cell called T cells. This means Ocrevus may work better for some patients by changing both B and T cell activity.
Efficacy Comparison Briumvi and Ocrevus
- Ocrevus Effectiveness: Ocrevus helps 83% of patients stay relapse-free after 2 years. It works well for many people.
- Briumvi’s Results: Briumvi lowers relapses by 59% compared to teriflunomide, showing it can prevent flare-ups.
- Briumvi Success Rate: About 86-87% of Briumvi users had no relapses in studies, which is very promising.
- No Direct Comparison: There are no studies directly comparing Briumvi and Ocrevus, so we can’t say which one is better for everyone.
Safety and Side Effects Briumvi and Ocrevus
Here’s a clear and simple breakdown of the safety and side effects of Briumvi and Ocrevus:
1. Common Side Effects
Both Briumvi and Ocrevus can cause infusion reactions and infections.
2. Infusion Reactions
- Briumvi: 48% of patients had infusion reactions.
- Ocrevus: 34% of patients experienced infusion reactions.
3. Upper Respiratory Infections
- Briumvi: 45% reported upper respiratory infections.
- Ocrevus: 40% had upper respiratory infections.
4. Importance of Monitoring
Due to these side effects, patients need to be monitored closely during treatment to ensure their safety.
Administration and Convenience: Which is Easier to Use
Briumvi is given through an IV (intravenous) infusion. The first dose is 150 mg, followed by 450 mg two weeks later. After that, patients get 450 mg every 24 weeks. The first infusion takes about four hours, while later ones take about one hour. Patients need to stay for at least one hour after the first two infusions to check for any reactions.
Ocrevus is also given through an IV infusion. The first dose is 300 mg, followed by another 300 mg two weeks later. After that, patients receive 600 mg every six months. Each infusion takes about three hours, which can be longer than Briumvi’s follow-up sessions. This longer time can make it harder for patients to fit treatments into their busy lives.
Briumvi is easier for busy people because it only requires two visits a year and shorter infusion times. In contrast, Ocrevus needs more frequent visits and longer sessions, making it harder to fit into a tight schedule.
Cost Comparison: Which Treatment Is More Affordable
Briumvi costs about $11,037 per infusion. Coverage by insurance can be inconsistent, and Medicare may not cover it. However, patient assistance programs can help lower costs, allowing some patients to pay as little as $0.
Ocrevus is more expensive, with an annual cost of around $65,000. Insurance may cover part of the cost, but many patients still face high out-of-pocket expenses. Ocrevus also offers financial support programs for those who qualify.
Over time, Briumvi might be cheaper because it requires fewer infusions. Both treatments can be costly, so it’s important to check insurance coverage and available assistance to manage expenses effectively.
Patient Reviews and Real-World Experiences
Patients often share positive experiences with Briumvi. Many say it helps reduce their MS flare-ups and improves their daily life. However, some report side effects like tiredness or mild reactions during treatment.
With Ocrevus, experiences vary widely. Some users feel it works well and leads to fewer symptoms. Others mention side effects, such as extreme fatigue and muscle pain, which can be hard to manage.
Online discussions show that many patients prefer Briumvi over Ocrevus. They appreciate its effectiveness and fewer side effects. Overall, patients are actively seeking better treatment options and sharing their thoughts in MS communities.
Doctor and Expert Opinions
Doctors think Briumvi (ublituximab) is a good choice for people with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). It helps reduce the number of relapses and only needs two treatments a year, which is easy for patients. It’s especially recommended for new patients or those wanting to change their medicine.
Doctors often recommend Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) for MS because it works well to lower relapses and slow down disability. It has a strong safety record and is given every six months, making it simple to use. Many trust Ocrevus because it has shown good results over time.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Briumvi and Ocrevus
Briumvi (ublituximab) showed an 80% reduction in relapse rates compared to placebo and is non-inferior to Ocrevus with a 49-59% reduction over 96 weeks. Over 60% of patients had no disease activity after treatment. Its shorter infusion time may enhance patient adherence, making it a strong alternative to Ocrevus for MS.
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a top treatment for multiple sclerosis, but research is looking into its long-term safety and effectiveness. Switching to Briumvi is safe for patients, providing them with alternative options. Roche may need to adjust pricing and strategies to compete with emerging therapies like Briumvi.
Conclusion
Briumvi and Ocrevus are both used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and help reduce relapses. Ocrevus works for both relapsing MS and primary progressive MS, while Briumvi is only for relapsing MS. Your choice depends on your specific needs.
Briumvi has shorter infusion times and is usually cheaper than Ocrevus. When deciding, consider how well each treatment works, possible side effects, and your situation. Talk to your doctor to find the best option for you.
FAQs
Can I switch from Ocrevus to Briumvi or vice versa?
Yes, you can switch from Ocrevus to Briumvi or the other way around. Always talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you.
Which treatment is better for relapsing-remitting MS?
Both Ocrevus and Briumvi are good treatments for relapsing-remitting MS. The best choice depends on your individual needs and should be discussed with your doctor.
How long does each treatment last in terms of effectiveness?
Briumvi is effective for about 96 weeks, reducing relapse rates significantly. Ocrevus also lasts around 96 weeks and helps lower relapses in relapsing-remitting MS.
Are there any lifestyle changes required while on these medications?
Yes, some lifestyle changes can help while on these medications. It’s important to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking to support your overall health.
Can I take either drug if I am planning to get pregnant?
If you plan to get pregnant, talk to your doctor before using Briumvi or Ocrevus. Briumvi should not be used during pregnancy, and both drugs may require you to use birth control while on treatment.
