The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Ocrevus Zunovo (ocrelizumab and hyaluronidase-ocsq). It’s a twice-a-year, 10-minute subcutaneous (under the skin) injection version of Ocrevus. Like Ocrevus, Ocrevus Zunovo is for people with relapsing multiple sclerosis and primary progressive multiple sclerosis.

The original version of Ocrevus is administered as an IV infusion, requiring at least two hours per visit, twice a year at a specialized infusion center. This new version is given as a quick injection in the abdomen by a health care professional at a doctor’s office or clinic.

Ocrelizumab, the active ingredient in Ocrevus, works by targeting CD20-positive B cells, a type of immune cell thought to contribute to nerve damage in MS. The addition of hyaluronidase-ocsq enhances absorption, allowing the medication to be given subcutaneously rather than intravenously.

Trial results show that Ocrevus Zunovo is as effective as the IV version of ocrelizumab in suppressing relapses and lesions seen on MRI by 97 percent over 48 weeks. Most trial participants also reported high satisfaction with the convenience of quicker injections.

A Faster, More Convenient Approach

Ocrevus Zunovo could be helpful for people seeking alternatives to lengthy IV infusions at specialized infusion centers. The injection works just as well while offering more flexibility and shorter administration time. Since it can be given in a doctor’s office, it may reduce travel times for those who don’t live near an infusion center. If you have questions about advances in MS treatments, talk to your neurologist.

Here are eight facts about the risks and benefits of infusion therapy for MS.

Find Your Team

On MyMSTeam, the social network for people living with multiple sclerosis and their loved ones, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with MS.

Would you prefer an at-home injection or infusions in a clinic? Share your tips and experiences in a comment below, start a conversation on your Activities page, or connect with like-minded people in Groups.