Ublituximab

Ublituximab is a monoclonal antibody prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is believed to work by targeting a protein called CD20, which is found on certain types of white blood cells. By targeting CD20, ublituximab helps to reduce inflammation and may slow the progression of MS. Ublituximab is administered through an intravenous (IV) infusion in your doctor’s office.

Ublituximab, sold under the brand name Briumvi, is a medication used to treat several forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Therapeutic Use:

• Treats relapsing forms of MS, including:
  • Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS): First episode of MS symptoms
  • Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS): Characterized by cycles of relapses and remission
  • Active secondary progressive MS (SPMS): Has elements of both RRMS and gradual worsening

Mechanism of Action:

• Ublituximab belongs to a class of drugs called CD20-directed cytolytic monoclonal antibodies.
• It targets and depletes B-cells, a type of immune cell involved in the inflammation that damages nerves in MS.
• By reducing B-cells, ublituximab helps to slow down the progression of MS and reduce the frequency of relapses.

Dosage and Administration:

• Ublituximab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, typically administered twice a year after an initial loading dose.

Important Considerations:

• Ublituximab is not a cure for MS, but it can help manage the disease.
• It can cause side effects, including infusion reactions (fever, chills, headache), infections, and lowered levels of immunoglobulins (antibodies).
• People taking ublituximab are more susceptible to infections, so a doctor will closely monitor them.
• It's a relatively new medication (first approved in the US in December 2022), and long-term effects are still being studied.