Key takeaways
- Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is a prescription drug used to treat clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. The drug comes as a liquid solution for injection under the skin.
- Kesimpta’s dosage schedule typically involves an initial loading dosage of 20 milligrams (mg) per week for 3 weeks, followed by a maintenance dosage of 20 mg once per month.
- Factors like the specific condition being treated, other health issues, and any vaccines received can influence the prescribed dosage of Kesimpta.
Kesimpta is used in adults to treat:
- CIS, which is sometimes a first sign of MS
- relapsing-remitting MS
- active secondary progressive MS
Kesimpta is a biologic drug, which means it’s made from parts of living organisms. It contains the active ingredient ofatumumab. Kesimpta belongs to a group of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. It is not traditional chemotherapy.
This article describes the dosage of Kesimpta, as well as its strength and how to take it.
This chart highlights the basics of Kesimpta’s dosage. Keep reading for more information.
| Kesimpta forms | Kesimpta strength | Starting dosage | Maintenance dosage |
|---|---|---|---|
| • prefilled syringe • prefilled Sensoready pen | • 20 milligram (mg) of the drug in 0.4 milliliter (mL) of solution | • Inject one dose (20 mg) each week for 3 weeks. • Skip the fourth week. | • Your first monthly dose will be at the start of the fifth week. • You’ll then inject one dose per month. |
Please keep in mind that this article covers Kesimpta’s standard dosage schedule, which is provided by the drug’s manufacturer. Always follow the dosage instructions your doctor prescribes.
What are the forms of Kesimpta?
Kesimpta comes as a liquid solution that’s given as an injection under your skin. It comes in the following forms:
- single-dose prefilled syringe
- single-dose prefilled Sensoready pen
What strength does Kesimpta come in?
Kesimpta comes in one strength of 20 mg of the drug in 0.4 mL of liquid solution.
What are the usual dosages of Kesimpta?
Your doctor will likely start you on the usual dosage of Kesimpta. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect. The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for CIS and certain kinds of MS
The recommended dosage of Kesimpta is the same for CIS, RRMS, and active SPMS.
You’ll likely start with a 20-mg injection of Kesimpta once per week for 3 weeks. Then, you won’t administer a dose on the fourth week. (This kind of dosing schedule is sometimes called a loading dose. This means you take more medication at the beginning of your Kesimpta dosing schedule, so it’ll start to work faster.)
You’ll begin your maintenance dose on the fifth week. You’ll likely give yourself a 20-mg injection of Kesimpta once per month from then on.
Is Kesimpta used long term?
Yes, Kesimpta is usually a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely use it long term.
The dosage of Kesimpta you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:
- the type and severity of the condition you’re using Kesimpta to treat
- the form of Kesimpta you’re using
- other health conditions you have
- vaccines you’ve received
Kesimpta is given as an injection under your skin. You’ll get your first dose of Kesimpta under the observation of a healthcare professional. They may give you the injection or instruct you on how to give it to yourself.
Kesimpta is usually injected into the skin of your thigh or abdomen. If another person is giving you the injection, they can also use your upper outer arm. Do not inject into skin that’s bruised, broken, red or discolored, scaly, tender, or marked with stretch marks, moles, or scars.
The prescribing information has diagrams (starting on page 17 for the Sensoready pen, and page 22 for the prefilled syringe). The manufacturer’s website also has a helpful video on how to use the Sensoready pen. But always be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.
For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Kesimpta, see the “Expiration” section of this article.
Accessible drug containers and labels
If you find it difficult to read the prescription label on your medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:
- have large print or use braille
- feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio
Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.
If you miss your dose of Kesimpta during your starting dose schedule, talk with your doctor. They’ll let you know what you should do. If you miss your dose of Kesimpta during your maintenance dosing schedule, inject it as soon as you remember. Then, continue taking your dose once per month. Let your doctor know that you missed the dose.
If you need help remembering to inject your dose of Kesimpta on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.
Do not inject more Kesimpta than your doctor prescribes as this can lead to serious side effects.
What to do in case you inject too much Kesimpta
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve injected too much Kesimpta. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
The following are answers to some commonly asked questions about Kesimpta’s dosage.
Can I keep my Kesimpta doses in the fridge?
Yes, you must store Kesimpta in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). But be sure to not freeze the medication. And keep it in the carton it comes in, so it’s not exposed to light until you need to use it.
How should I prepare for my first Kesimpta dose?
Before you receive your first Kesimpta dose, your doctor will talk with you about which vaccines to get. Like some other biologic drugs, Kesimpta affects your immune system. Some vaccines won’t work as well if you receive them during treatment with Kesimpta.
Your doctor will also test you for the hepatitis B virus and certain immune system proteins in your blood before you begin treatment.
This article covers the usual dosage provided by Kesimpta’s manufacturer. If your doctor recommends this medication for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.
Remember, you should not change your dosage of Kesimpta without your doctor’s recommendation. Only use Kesimpta exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.
Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask:
- Will my Kesimpta dosage change if I start taking other medications?
- Do I need to skip a Kesimpta dose if I catch a cold?
- Should I use the Kesimpta prefilled syringe or the prefilled Sensoready pen?
- Would a different dosage decrease my risk of side effects from Kesimpta?
To learn more about Kesimpta, see these articles:
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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.