Ocrevus vs. Kesimta
Hi. I;ve been on Aubagio for years, but I recently learned that my double vision is MS-related (I had no idea) and am trying to decide between Ocrevus and Kesimta. I was on Avonex and then Copaxone and went to pills maybe 10 years ago because of needle fatigue. Hence, I'm leaning Ocrevus, but before I make that decision I want to hear about some personal experiences with each therapy.
Also, does either have a payment assistance program? Aubagio just changed its program and notified me that I've about used up my allotment of help for the year, meaning I'd be on the hook for thousands each month.
Thanks.
Hi,
!
First off, I am sorry you are dealing with double vision and a medication change. I assume you have probably discussed your options with your physician? If not, I would definitely schedule some time to have a discussion about each medication and what your physician feels might be the best option for you. Ultimately, of course, it's your decision.
Secondly, here's some copay assistance information on Ocrevus -- https://www.ocrevus.com/patient/cost.html?c=ocr-1632bb43840&gclid=CjwKCAjwq5-WBhB7EiwAl-HEkm3ja_lbB5rsHmy_Dl1QSUheeCB1hpH1ZhIyvqs4myz1kZ9kS5fPNBoCWXcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds. And here's some information about the copay program for Kesimpta -- https://www.kesimpta.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=Kesimpta.com_Branded_Google;S;PH;BR;NER;DTC;BR&utm_term=Brand_Phrase%20%7c%20kesimpta&gclid=CjwKCAjwq5-WBhB7EiwAl-HEkkzntD0vk8gsUw4EnpMiL7uAKUMfkymEilLx2IxTD-Ryg6ysclQBPRoC6BsQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds#a. I know MS medications can be so expensive and I hope these copay programs will help, whichever medication you choose to try.
I thought you might find this thread about Kesimpta interesting as you research your options -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/forums/kesimpta. And here's some information about Ocrevus -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/ocrevus-patients-story and -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/first-ocrevus-infusion.
Ocrevus could be a good fit if you are looking to minimize your needle pokes and prods. Of course, Kesimpta has some advantages, too.
Additionally, I do hope you get some helpful feedback from other community members! And I hope this information is helpful!
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team member.Thanks, Erin. Much appreciated.
Hello
😀 While I do not have experience with either meds, I can suggest an additional resource for co-pay assistance. Although most drug companies offer patient assistance, most will only help if you have commercial insurance. If you are on government insurance (Medicaid, Medicare), you must go to private charity groups. I you sign up with PAN, they have a fund finder tool where you can be added to the waiting list and get alerted when a MS fund opens up. Here's the link: PAN Foundation - www.panfoundation.org
I have used up my allotment for the year too and I've been told to apply for a second grant--but the MS fund is closed, as it is in every other private charity right now. It means I will go without drugs until a fund opens up, or until we all re-up in January. Tough, but true.
Wishing you the best of luck, Kim, moderator
Thank you again.
