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Have my first ocrevus infusion this Friday. What should I expect? During the infusion process and after?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
May 27
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A MyMSTeam Member

Ocrevus injection - Coming from someone who has no symptoms yet MRI showed different the side effects for me have been very different from what others are reporting. One dose this far and I’m feeling weakness in my legs, itching, brain fog, fatigue at times, mood swings, etc… Again my experience may be a bit different from others and I’m currently trying to figure out if I should take another dose or try something else..

June 1
A MyMSTeam Member

i did the 10 minute push two weeks ago. they did mine through my belly fat. needle didn't hurt going in but it did hurt a bit when they started injecting it. I ended up with a fever in the mid 90s for like three days and all I wanted to do was sleep. injection site also hurt for a few days and left a light but huge bruise. Definitely be ready to take a couple days off to recoup if you do the 10 minute push. I dont mean for it to sound terrible lol but I switched from tecfidera pills to the infusion and I definitely prefer the infusion over the pills.

May 28 (edited)
MyMSTeam

How exciting (and maybe a little nerve-wracking) — first Ocrevus infusion coming up! Here's what to expect going in:

Before the infusion, you'll likely be given premedications to reduce the chance of a reaction. These typically include:

- Steroids
- An antihistamine (like Benadryl/diphenhydramine)
- Acetaminophen Show Full Answer

How exciting (and maybe a little nerve-wracking) — first Ocrevus infusion coming up! Here's what to expect going in:

Before the infusion, you'll likely be given premedications to reduce the chance of a reaction. These typically include:

- Steroids
- An antihistamine (like Benadryl/diphenhydramine)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Let your care team know if you've had any past reactions to these medications, as some people need alternatives.

The infusion itself takes at least two hours. Some tips to make it more comfortable:

- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Bring snacks and something to keep you entertained (book, tablet, headphones)
- Bring a friend or loved one if you can
- Know that you can pause the infusion if you need a bathroom break Hydration is key! Drinking plenty of water the day before and the day of your infusion can significantly reduce side effects. One study found that good hydration combined with premedication led to 60% fewer infusion reactions. As one MyMSTeam member put it, "It really does make such a huge difference."

After the infusion, plan for a restful day. The Benadryl premedication can make you quite sleepy, so:

- Arrange for someone else to drive you home
- Clear your schedule for the rest of the day
- Some people feel tired for a day or two after

If you experience any side effects like lightheadedness or nausea after getting home, don't hesitate to contact your MS care team right away. Always report any side effects, even mild ones, so your team can monitor and adjust if needed.

May 27

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