Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus) Subcutaneous Injection
Ocrelizumab is a disease-modifying therapy that targets specific immune cells involved in the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). At Welbeck, we offer this treatment as a convenient injection, significantly reducing appointment time compared to traditional IV infusions.
At a glance
- Consultation required
- Doctor referral only
- Paediatric Patients Aged 12-18 Seen
- Self-Pay Available
What is an ocrelizumab subcutaneous injection?
An ocrelizumab subcutaneous injection delivers ocrelizumab (also known by the brand name Ocrevus) directly under the skin, rather than through an intravenous (IV) infusion.
Ocrelizumab is a disease-modifying therapy that works by targeting B-cells in the immune system that drive inflammation and nerve damage in multiple sclerosis (MS). Reducing this activity can help prevent new MS symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life for people with MS.
Previously, ocrelizumab was given as an IV infusion that could take up to 4 hours. The new subcutaneous injection can be completed in around 10 minutes, allowing patients to spend far less time in the clinic. Clinical trials have shown that the injection works just as effectively as the infusion, with 97% of patients experiencing no relapses or new brain lesions over 48 weeks.
This treatment may be recommended if you have:
relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS)
primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)
The faster delivery method can be especially helpful for people with difficult-to-access veins, who may previously have found IV treatments challenging.
At Welbeck, our consultant neurologists have extensive experience in treating MS, including the use of ocrelizumab, and we’re one of the few centres in the UK offering the new subcutaneous delivery method. You’ll receive care in our dedicated Neurology centre, which combines advanced diagnostic facilities with private, comfortable surroundings. Our team is committed to providing personalised care to help prevent relapses, reduce MS progression and support your long-term wellbeing.
In this video, one of our consultant neurologists, Dr Karen Cheung, explains the benefits of this innovative therapy and what to expect from treatment.
[INSERT VIDEO]
Paediatrics
We offer appointments to paediatric patients aged 12 to 18. For full information on our paediatrics service, please visit our main Paediatrics page.
More information
Your appointment will usually take around 2 hours, which will include preparation, the injection itself, and a monitoring period afterwards.
A typical visit involves:
Pre-medication: Around 30 minutes before the injection, you’ll be given medicines such as antihistamines and anti-inflammatories. These help reduce the chance of a reaction to the treatment.
Subcutaneous injection: The injection itself takes about 10 minutes, and is given just under the skin, usually in the tummy or thigh.
Observation period: After the injection, you’ll stay for around 60 minutes, so the team can monitor you for any early side effects.
Going home: Once the observation period is complete, and you feel well, you can go home and resume your usual daily activities.
Your neurologist will arrange ongoing clinical reviews to monitor your condition, assess your response to treatment and guide the next steps in your MS care. This may include a schedule of further injections.
All medicines can cause side effects, and your neurologist will talk these through with you before treatment begins.
Possible side effects include:
injection-related reactions such as redness, itching, or mild swelling at the injection site
a slight increase in the risk of infections (for example, colds or viruses) due to the medication’s effect on the immune system
mild tiredness or flu-like symptoms in the days following treatment
Most reactions are mild and settle quickly. Serious side effects are uncommon, and you’ll be closely monitored during and after your injection.
Before starting treatment, you’ll have a full neurological assessment, which may include MRI scans, blood tests, and a review of your MS history to confirm that ocrelizumab is suitable for you.
Your neurologist will let you know if you need to adjust any medications before your appointment or take any other steps to prepare.
Most people feel well after their ocrelizumab injection, and can return to normal activities the same day. You may experience mild redness or itching at the injection site or feel slightly tired. These symptoms usually settle within a short period.
Your neurologist will discuss any signs to look out for, such as symptoms of infection, and will arrange regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. You should contact the clinical team if you feel unwell or have concerns after your treatment.
Ongoing monitoring is an important part of MS care. Your consultant will review your MRI scans, assess your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan if needed to keep your MS under the best possible control. Many patients find that regular treatment with ocrelizumab helps reduce relapses, stabilise their condition, and support day-to-day quality of life.
Please contact our Neurology centre for detailed pricing information.
At Welbeck, our neurologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
To book an ocrelizumab subcutaneous injection, you must be referred by either your GP or a neurologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck neurologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
Our locations
Loading
Frequently asked questions
Most people notice improvements gradually over a few months as inflammation settles and the condition becomes more controlled. Your neurologist will keep a close eye on your progress with regular check-ups and MRI scans.
After your initial doses, ocrelizumab is typically given every 6 months. Your neurologist will recommend a schedule that’s best for you based on your clinical needs and your response to treatment.
Most people can drive after their appointment unless they feel unwell or drowsy from pre-medication. After your monitoring period, your nurse will confirm when you’re able to drive home.
Regular MRI scans are an important part of monitoring MS, even when treatment is working well. Scans help check that the medication continues to control inflammation and that you’re receiving the most suitable treatment for you.