What are the side effects of Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)?
Ocrevus can cause several side effects that you should be aware of:
Increased Infection Risk
People taking Ocrevus face about twice the rate of serious infections compared to those on older injectable therapies. Respiratory infections are most common, followed by urinary Show Full Answer
What are the side effects of Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)?
Ocrevus can cause several side effects that you should be aware of:
Increased Infection Risk
People taking Ocrevus face about twice the rate of serious infections compared to those on older injectable therapies. Respiratory infections are most common, followed by urinary tract and skin infections. Over three years of treatment, serious infections occur in roughly 4.2 out of every 100 people each year.
Reduced COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness
Vaccinated people with MS taking Ocrevus have a higher risk of breakthrough COVID-19 infections compared to other disease-modifying therapies. They're also at increased risk for severe COVID-19 requiring hospitalization, though vaccination still provides protection compared to being unvaccinated.
Infusion Reactions
Common side effects during or shortly after infusions include fatigue and tiredness. Many people experience significant drowsiness, especially when pre-medications like Benadryl are used. Members often plan light, low-energy days after their infusions.
"Crap Gap" or Wearing-Off Phenomenon
About 61 percent of people report symptoms returning before their next scheduled dose. These include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Brain fog or cognitive issues
- Balance problems
- Numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles sensations
Symptoms typically start more than four weeks before the next infusion and often disappear once treatment is given.
November 18, 2025
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