Many patients living with multiple sclerosis (MS) face a lifelong challenge of relapses, fatigue, and progressive symptoms. In recent years, more and more people are asking about Ocrevus and choosing it as one of the most promising MS treatment options available today.
At Smart Infusion Therapy Services, we specialize in delivering advanced neurology infusion therapy in Eau Claire, Madison, Wausau, and Onalaska. With a focus on comfort and safety, we support patients through their Ocrevus infusions every step of the way, from onboarding to long-term management. If you're exploring new MS treatments or ready to switch, schedule a consultation to speak with our care team.
Let’s explore what makes Ocrevus different and why so many patients are making the switch.
What Is Ocrevus Used For?
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is a prescription MS drug approved by the FDA to treat both relapsing and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It’s commonly prescribed for:
- Relapsing forms of MS (RMS), including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), active secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)
- Primary progressive MS (PPMS), a form of MS marked by gradual worsening from the onset without early relapses
Ocrevus is a humanized monoclonal antibody that works by targeting and depleting CD20-positive B cells, a type of white blood cell believed to contribute to the inflammation and nerve damage seen in MS. By modifying this immune response, Ocrevus helps slow disease progression and reduce the frequency of relapses in relapsing forms of MS.
This targeted, immune-modulating approach is what sets Ocrevus apart from many older MS medications.
Understanding the Ocrevus Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of Ocrevus is centered around reducing the immune system’s attack on the central nervous system, a key factor in the progression of multiple sclerosis.
Ocrevus works by targeting CD20-positive B cells, a specific group of immune cells thought to drive inflammation and nerve damage in MS. By binding to these B cells and removing them from circulation, Ocrevus helps calm the abnormal immune response without broadly suppressing the entire immune system.
This selective B-cell depletion helps:
- Slow the progression of disability in both relapsing and primary progressive MS
- Reduce relapse rates in relapsing forms of the disease
- Preserve brain tissue volume, which supports long-term function and cognitive health
- Delay the onset of physical decline, helping patients maintain independence longer
Because of its targeted action and long-lasting immune modulation, Ocrevus is often considered a more precise and durable option compared to traditional MS therapies.
Why More Patients Are Choosing Ocrevus
More patients and neurologists are turning to Ocrevus as a trusted part of long-term MS management and for good reason. Its targeted action, lasting results, and simplified dosing make it a standout option among today’s MS treatment options.
1. Proven Clinical Benefits
Ocrevus has been shown in clinical trials to significantly reduce relapse rates and slow disability progression in both relapsing and progressive forms of MS. For many patients, it offers stronger and more consistent results compared to older immunomodulating therapies.
2. Convenient Twice-Yearly Dosing
Unlike medications that require daily pills or monthly injections, Ocrevus infusions are given only twice a year after the initial loading dose. This simplified schedule allows patients to maintain their routines, careers, and travel plans with fewer treatment interruptions.
3. Durable, Long-Term Results
Many patients switching to Ocrevus report greater stability in their symptoms and overall function. Thanks to its B-cell targeting design, the drug provides lasting immune modulation without broadly suppressing the entire immune system, resulting in better disease control with fewer systemic side effects.
4. A Comfortable Infusion Experience
At Smart Infusion, we believe how you receive care matters just as much as the medication itself. That’s why we provide a personalized, private infusion setting, far removed from busy hospital environments. Patients enjoy:
- Private treatment rooms
- A low 3:1 nurse-to-patient ratio
- Streaming services, snacks, and high-speed WiFi
- A team of experienced nurses to oversee your Ocrevus infusion from start to finish
We’re here to make your treatment as easy and supportive as possible, so you can focus on living well with MS.
Things to Consider Before Switching to Ocrevus
Thinking about making the switch to Ocrevus? It’s important to have a detailed conversation with your neurologist to ensure the treatment is the right fit for your individual needs and MS progression.
Here are key points to consider and plan for:
- Eligibility: Ocrevus is FDA-approved for adults with relapsing forms of MS, including RRMS, SPMS, and CIS, as well as PPMS. Your neurologist can help determine if you're a candidate based on your medical history and current disease activity.
- Pre-medication Requirements: To reduce the risk of infusion-related reactions, patients typically receive pre-medication, such as antihistamines, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids, shortly before the infusion begins.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Because Ocrevus affects immune function, your care team will likely order routine blood work and follow-ups to monitor your response and ensure your body is tolerating the treatment well.
- Infusion Schedule: Treatment starts with two initial doses given two weeks apart. After that, maintenance infusions are administered once every six months, offering long-term control with minimal disruption to your schedule.
Once your neurologist confirms that Ocrevus is right for you, Smart Infusion can work directly with your provider to coordinate orders, verify coverage, and schedule your first infusion at one of our patient-centered locations across Wisconsin.
Why Choose Smart Infusion for Ocrevus Infusion?
At Smart Infusion, we provide a more personal, convenient, and cost-effective alternative to hospital-based infusion centers, without compromising clinical excellence. Our experienced team partners directly with your referring neurologist to deliver seamless, evidence-based care in a setting built around your comfort.
Here’s what sets us apart for Ocrevus infusion therapy:
- Neurology-Focused Infusion Expertise: Our infusion nurses are specially trained in administering MS therapies, including Ocrevus, ensuring safe, knowledgeable support throughout every step of your treatment.
- Convenient Locations Across Wisconsin: With state-of-the-art infusion centers in Eau Claire, Wausau, Madison, and Onalaska, care is never far from home.
- Flexible Scheduling: We offer extended appointment availability to fit your routine, whether you’re managing work, travel, or other commitments.
- Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs: Our outpatient model helps reduce expenses compared to hospital-based care, without sacrificing comfort or clinical quality.
When you're ready to begin or continue your Ocrevus journey, Smart Infusion provides the clinical precision and comfort-focused care that MS patients deserve.
Experience the Benefits of Ocrevus in a Smarter Setting
Ocrevus continues to earn its place as a trusted MS therapy because of its long-term results, convenient dosing, and B-cell-targeted mechanism of action. When paired with patient-centered care at Smart Infusion, it becomes even more accessible and manageable.
Book your Ocrevus infusion consultation with Smart Infusion today, or call us at 608-690-7210 to learn how we support your MS care with personalized infusion services across Wisconsin.
