Ocrevus Infusion - First Time

[RTR1]

I just completed my initial Ocrevus infusions - 1/2 dosage 15 days apart. Sharing my experience as I had a lot of questions and now I have some of the answers.

I recommend taking whatever you need to be comfortable to the infusion center. I carried a bag with a healthy lunch, and mints in case I had that steroid "metallic taste", as well as a pillow for my "IV" arm, fluffy blanket (it is cold in the hospital), and entertainment - Kindle (we did have a TV in our room). Don't go alone, take a friend, significant other, etc. Dress in comfy clothes and wear layers (I went from hot to cold several times).

First, they will insert the IV and give you Benadryl (which will make you sleepy so take advantage, get comfy, and nap), aspirin, and medrol (steroid). Once you finish the steroid bag, they will hang the Ocrevus bag for your infusion. I arrived at the infusion center at 9 AM both times and left around 3 PM. I didn't have any side effects from the Ocrevus. I did have the typical steroid side effects....I couldn't sleep the night after and my stomach hurt that night so I recommend eating light for a day or two after your infusion.

I have had an increase in my l'hermittes syndrome ever since my infusion (the electric shock feeling traveling from my brain down my leg). I think that it will settle down as I also had the same thing happen after my 5-day steroid infusion last November.

So far, I don't notice any other issues. I have heard that it might be after my next 6-month infusion before I notice any improvement in my MS symptoms. I don't know if my drop foot will ever improve but I am hoping that Ocrevus slows down my progression. I will keep you posted

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Dear RTR1 I have not noticed any side effects either except a little bit of it increased fatigue day of infusion but I haven't had an exacerbation since I started Ocrevus. So fingers crossed for you too. Robert

[Mollyabigail]

I am so pleased that it went well, RTR1! You rock! I have found if I ask my (home infusion) nurse if I can take just HALF of the steroids, I can sleep that night and go back to work the next day. My next infusion is coming up Thursday. Cannot wait!

[kdali]

Glad it went well!

[ahrogers]

Glad you did well. My infusion center does not allow anyone back with me. I usually go alone but my son was visiting when I had my last one so brought him along only to find out he couldn't come back with me. The infusion center is a big open area, no separate rooms, so they don't have space for a guest. They provide snacks and drinks so I just bring my Kindle or play on my phone. They also have TVs with headsets.I hope you get some improvement. I know some people have.

[whwiechm]

I've been getting Ocrevus for 2 years now, and the only reaction I've had is I feel better for a day or two after the infusion, maybe because of the steroids. I always take my laptop and a couple of movies to watch. My next infusion is scheduled for April, maybe I'll take my high school choir reunion concert DVD this time.

[BlanketTime1]

i'm glad it went so well and thx for sharing!🤗

[Tazmanian]

Congratulations

[Graip76]

So glad it went well for you. I’ve never had a reaction and I’ve had 5 so far. Take care 😉

[stepsforNeeC]

Thank you for sharing this important information with us!