Roche Pharma India has unveiled its pioneering drug, Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab), a breakthrough treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). The launch is a significant expansion of Roche's neurology portfolio, addressing the unmet needs of patients grappling with this debilitating disease in India.

MS, a chronic central nervous system disorder, is a leading cause of non-traumatic disability in young adults, with most diagnoses occurring between the ages of 20 and 40.

Ocrevus, a monoclonal antibody drug, is the only approved therapy for both Relapsing Forms of MS (RMS) and Primary Progressive MS (PPMS). With over a decade of clinical and real-world data, the drug has showcased substantial impacts, including:

Over 80% of people with RMS and over 33% with PPMS showed no signs of disability progression.

Early initiation of Ocrevus saved nearly 10 years of disease progression in people with RMS.

92% of RMS patients who received Ocrevus earlier did not require a walking aid.

80% of PPMS patients did not need a wheelchair after 10 years of continuous Ocrevus therapy.

Ocrevus's twice-yearly dosing has contributed to superior adherence and persistence, with approximately 80% of patients adhering to this regimen after their second year of treatment.

Asit Sabat, Director-Cluster Head (Indian Leadership Team) at Roche, highlighted Ocrevus as Roche's single-largest global product across disease areas, emphasizing its success in more than 100 countries. The drug's global acclaim stems from its clinical efficacy, safety, and convenient administration.

Dr. Viraj Suvarna, Chief Medical Officer at Roche Pharma India, emphasized the extensive clinical trial data supporting Ocrevus's effectiveness in slowing disability progression in primary progressive MS. The therapy's approval for both relapsing and primary progressive forms of MS in India positions it as distinct from existing treatments.

Despite the anticipated cost of around Rs. 3 Lakhs, experts anticipate Ocrevus to significantly improve treatment access for MS patients in India. Dr. (Prof.) M.V Padma Srivastava, Chairperson, Neurology at Paras Hospitals, emphasized the critical need for medications that effectively manage disease activity and impede disability progression.

Sandeep Chitnis, National Honorary Secretary of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), highlighted the challenge in detecting and diagnosing MS due to its sporadic nature. Chitnis emphasized the importance of early treatment initiation to address disease progression, safeguarding the physical and mental capabilities of individuals with MS.

The introduction of Ocrevus in India marks a groundbreaking advancement in the treatment landscape for multiple sclerosis, offering new hope and improved outcomes for patients across the country.