Ocrevus® Infusions: What Is It & Where To Get It

What is Ocrevus®?

Ocrevus® (ocrelizumab) is a monoclonal antibody therapy designed to treat both relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) and primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) in adults. It's part of the anti-CD20 therapy class, which targets and removes specific B cells — immune cells known to contribute to the nerve damage associated with MS.

What sets Ocrevus apart from many other MS treatments is its ability to address both relapsing and progressive forms of the disease, making it one of the most comprehensive treatment options available. In fact, Ocrevus is the first FDA-approved therapy for primary progressive MS, offering hope to patients who previously had limited treatment options.

Ocrevus infusion is administered intravenously at our specialized infusion center. The initial treatment involves:

• First infusion: 300 mg over at least 2.5 hours
• Second infusion: 300 mg, two weeks later, over at least 2.5 hours
• Maintenance infusions: 600 mg every 6 months, typically over 2 hours

Premedications (corticosteroid and antihistamine) are given before each infusion to reduce the risk of reactions. Patients are monitored for at least one hour after each infusion. For those who tolerate the treatment well, a shorter infusion option may be available for maintenance doses.

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How Does Ocrevus Work?

In MS, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath — the insulating layer around nerves in the brain and spinal cord that allows efficient communication between nerve cells. Damage to this sheath can disrupt nerve signals, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, visual disturbances, and cognitive changes.

Ocrevus works by targeting a specific type of immune cell involved in this process:

• Targets CD20-positive B cells: These are immune cells that play a key role in the attack on myelin
• Depletes harmful B cells: By binding to the CD20 marker, Ocrevus signals the immune system to remove these cells
• Reduces inflammation: Fewer B cells means less inflammation in the brain and spinal cord
• Protects nerve tissue: By stopping B cells before they damage myelin, Ocrevus helps preserve nerve function

What makes Ocrevus unique is its proven effectiveness in treating both relapsing and primary progressive forms of multiple sclerosis. For relapsing MS, it significantly reduces the frequency of relapses and slows disability progression. For primary progressive MS, where symptoms steadily worsen over time, Ocrevus is the first and only treatment shown to slow the progression of physical disability.

While Ocrevus does not cure MS, it helps reduce inflammation, slow disability progression, and minimize new disease activity — supporting improved stability and quality of life. Patients can begin to see measurable effects from Ocrevus in as little as 12 weeks, with benefits continuing to increase over many months to a few years. Clinical trials have demonstrated sustained benefits over extended treatment periods, helping patients maintain function and reduce disease activity long-term.

Like all medications, Ocrevus can cause side effects. Common Ocrevus infusion side effects include:

• Infusion reactions (fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure)
• Upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, flu)
• Lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia)
• Skin reactions (rash, itching, hives)
• Diarrhea

Less common but serious side effects require immediate medical attention:

• Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): A rare but serious brain infection
• Severe allergic reactions: Including anaphylaxis
• Hepatitis B virus reactivation: In those with a prior infection
• Serious infections: Due to decreased immune function
• Reduced immunoglobulin levels: Which can increase infection risk

Rare but serious complications can include blood clots, heart failure, and stroke. Your healthcare team at our  infusion center will monitor you closely during and after each Ocrevus IV infusion to ensure your safety.

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How Much Does Ocrevus Cost?

The Ocrevus infusion cost depends on individual insurance coverage and benefits. At Rocky Mountain MS Clinic, our team works to make treatment as seamless and affordable as possible for every patient.

We collaborate with most major commercial insurance providers throughout the region — including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare — as well as Medicaid and Medicare. Our team works closely with your insurance company to maximize your coverage for Ocrevus treatment.

Our infusion staff provides comprehensive support to make treatment more accessible:

• Handles all prior authorizations and benefit verification
• Provides financial counseling to clarify expected out-of-pocket costs
• Assists with copay assistance programs and foundation support
• Helps you explore manufacturer patient assistance programs

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Why Patients Choose Rocky Mountain MS Clinic's Infusion Center to Receive Their Ocrevus Infusion

Clinical Excellence and Neurological Expertise

Our Utah infusion center is staffed by board-certified neurologists and BSN-prepared Registered Nurses with extensive experience in neurological infusion care. Patients can expect expert oversight and compassionate, individualized support throughout treatment.

Our medical team brings specialized expertise in multiple sclerosis and complex neurological conditions. With advanced training and years of experience managing MS patients on anti-CD20 therapies, our team of health providers understand the unique considerations for both relapsing and progressive MS treatment.

Our clinical expertise extends beyond MS to include comprehensive care for myasthenia gravis, neuropathy, and other neurological disorders. We have advanced diagnostic capabilities, including electromyography, to provide complete neurological care in one convenient location.

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Lower Costs and Financial Assistance

We handle prior authorizations, verify benefits, and assist patients with copay and foundation support programs to reduce financial strain.

Studies, including one from Cigna, show that patients treated in physician-owned infusion centers — such as Rocky Mountain MS Clinic’s Infusion Center — often pay less overall and out of pocket compared to hospital outpatient centers.

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35+ Years of Trusted Neurological Care

With over 35 years of service to the Utah community, Rocky Mountain MS Clinic’s has built a reputation for excellence in the treatment of MS and other neurological disorders. Our decades of experience mean we've treated thousands of patients with both relapsing and progressive MS, giving us deep insight into the challenges you face and the most effective treatment approaches.

Our established track record with Ocrevus infusion for multiple sclerosis and other anti-CD20 therapies means you benefit from a team that understands not just the science behind the treatment, but the real-world impact on patients' lives. Our team's experience, care, and dedication continue to make a meaningful difference for patients every day.