Briumvi® (ublituximab-xiiy) is approved to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). These include relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and clinically isolated syndrome.1,2
In people with these types of MS, symptoms flare for at least 24 hours. This is called a relapse. After a relapse, symptoms may get better or go away. Everyone with MS is different, and experiences vary for each person over time.3
Briumvi reduces the immune system activity involved in MS progression. This lowers the frequency of relapses. Serious side effects are possible. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of Briumvi.1,2
What are the ingredients in Briumvi?
The active ingredient in Briumvi is ublituximab-xiiy.2
How does Briumvi work?
Ublituximab is a monoclonal antibody. Antibodies are proteins our immune system uses to target germs. They help our immune system fight and destroy invaders. Monoclonal antibodies are made in a lab to target certain other proteins.4
Experts do not know exactly how ublituximab works to treat MS. It targets a protein on the surface of B cells called CD20. B cells are white blood cells that produce antibodies. They seem to play a role in nervous system damage in MS.2,5
When ublituximab binds to B cells, the cells rupture and die. Research has shown that reducing B cells is an effective way to treat relapsing forms of MS.2,5
In clinical trials, researchers looked at how well Briumvi works compared to Aubagio® (teriflunomide). Aubagio is another treatment for relapsing forms of MS. Compared to Aubagio, Briumvi:6,7
- Reduces the frequency of relapses
- Reduces the number of brain lesions
- Does not slow the progression of disability
What are possible side effects?
The most common side effects of Briumvi include:2
- Infusion reactions
- Upper or lower respiratory tract infections
- Herpes infections
- Hand or foot pain
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
These are not all the possible side effects of Briumvi. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Briumvi. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Briumvi.
Other things to know
Briumvi is given as an intravenous (into the vein) infusion. Reactions to the infusion are common and can be serious. They can happen up to 24 hours after the infusion. Your doctor will watch you during and after each infusion for a reaction. Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms of an infusion reaction, including:2
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Fast heartbeat
- Hives or itchy skin
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea
- Throat irritation
- Redness of the face or skin
Your doctor will take steps at each infusion to reduce side effects. This may include:2
- Checking for active infections
- Giving you steroids or antihistamines to reduce the risk of reaction
- Changing the infusion rate if there are signs of infusion reactions
Briumvi can reduce levels of antibodies in your blood, which can lower your immune system's ability to fight infection. Do not take Briumvi if you have an active infection. Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms of an infection.2
Your doctor will perform certain tests before your first infusion. This includes testing for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and pregnancy. Your doctor will also make sure you get routine vaccinations before starting treatment.2
Briumvi can harm an unborn baby. If you or your partner can become pregnant, you should use birth control during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose of Briumvi. You should also not breastfeed during treatment with Briumvi and for some time after the last dose. Talk to your doctor about your options for birth control and breastfeeding while taking Briumvi.2
Before starting Briumvi, tell your doctor your full health history. Other medical conditions or medicines can make Briumvi less safe. Talk to your doctor about any:2
- Allergies, especially to ingredients in Briumvi
- Other medicines you take, especially immunosuppressants
- Over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take
- Other medical conditions you have
- History of HBV infection
- Recent vaccinations
For more information, read the full prescribing information of Briumvi.