Ofatumumab is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (disease affecting the brain and/or spinal cord).
Ofatumumab is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen area).
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you. If you or your caregiver had been given the proper training on the preparation and injection techniques of this medicine, you or your caregiver may do the administration.
Use Ofatumumab exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button), and into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, hard, or scaly.
Ofatumumab is available as a single-use pen or pre-filled syringe. Make sure you know how to use the pen or syringe. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Your doctor will also discuss the use of this medicine as different brands and preparations of Ofatumumab may only be used for a specific condition. Do not use this medicine for any conditions other than what is prescribed by your doctor.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Ofatumumab must be administered regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any dose. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Ofatumumab.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
If you or a caregiver had been trained to administer this medicine and missed a dose, inject the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you forgot to administer your dose.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- severe immune system problems
- severe infection
- hepatitis B infection
as Ofatumumab may not be suitable for you.
Alert your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated. You must avoid vaccinations without consulting with your doctor.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of hepatitis B infection.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is important that you do not get pregnant while being treated with this medicine. You must use proven birth control methods during therapy and for 6 months after stopping the treatment. You may wish to discuss birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Screening for hepatitis B infection and evaluation of the status of your immune system may be done before starting therapy.
- Regular blood immunoglobulin tests may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Ofatumumab may cause any of the following side effects: runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, pain, and itching, or swelling at the injection site.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- fever, fast heartbeat, rapid shallow breathing, loss of appetite, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes
- sudden loss of vision, difficulty walking, loss of coordination, trouble speaking, facial drooping, confusion
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Avoid vaccination with live vaccines during treatment with this medicine. Alert your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated or if you are planning to get vaccinated.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
Protect from light. Do not shake.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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