Ocrelizumab
- CAS Number: 637334-45-3
Ocrelizumab is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, which has hitherto been used in trials for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS ) It acts as a B- cell depletion and belongs to the group of immunosuppressants. Ocrelizumab was developed on the basis of rituximab by Hoffmann -LaRoche subsidiary Genentech and Biogen Idec.
This antibody selectively binds to a particular protein, the CD20 antigen found on the surface of autoreactive B cells and are thought to play an important role in multiple sclerosis. It interacts with the body's own immune system to eliminate CD20 -positive B cells. By selectively targeting B cells, ocrelizumab has the potential to improve the currently approved treatments for multiple sclerosis. In October 2010, 24 -week results were published for the phase II study of relapsing- remitting MS from Roche. The compound has demonstrated in patients with relapsing- recurrent multiple sclerosis, a significant reduction in disease activity as measured by the number of brain lesions and relapse rate.
- 2.1 Mechanism of action ( pharmacodynamics )
- 3.1 History
- 3.2 Trade name
Clinical information
Areas of application (indications )
Ocrelizumab is tested for the treatment of autoimmune disease of the central nervous system ( multiple sclerosis). Ocrelizumab is in the European Union is not yet approved for the treatment of patients. However, has already been demonstrated in recent studies that ocrelizumab in relapsing- recurrent multiple sclerosis achieved positive effects for the patient. Only relapsing- remitting MS patients were examined in the present phase II trials, because this is one of the most common form of MS and is characterized by acute exacerbations with full or partial recovery between relapses. At present, further studies with ocrelizumab in Phase III studies are carried out in order to be used in future for the treatment of relapsing-remitting and primary progressive MS.
Adverse effects (side effects)
Ocrelizumab has an immunosuppressive effect. Therefore, adverse effects by altering the body's defenses can arise. These are flu-like side effects, headache, bone pain, increased susceptibility to infection, and in some cases, allergic reactions to the substance.
Pharmacological properties
Mechanism of action ( pharmacodynamics )
Ocrelizumab is administered as an intravenous infusion. The first two infusion must take place at a distance of two weeks. Thereafter, patients receive all 24 weeks single, subsequent infusions.
Other Information
History
Originally ocrelizumab was developed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, but here the further investigations were terminated. The substance itself is derived from rituximab, which is used in oncological diseases.
Trade names
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