Roche Introduces Ocrevus for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in India

With over a decade of clinical and real-world data, Ocrevus demonstrates notable efficacy in slowing disability progression and improving patient outcomes.

Roche Pharma India has launched Ocrevus (ocrelizumab), a novel drug for treating multiple sclerosis (MS), aiming to address the unmet needs of patients grappling with this debilitating disease in India.

Ocrevus, a monoclonal antibody drug, has been approved for the treatment of both Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) and Primary Progressive MS (PPMS), offering hope to patients across the spectrum of the disease. With over a decade of clinical and real-world data, Ocrevus demonstrates notable efficacy in slowing disability progression and improving patient outcomes.

Adding insights, V Simpson Emmanuel, CEO and managing director of Roche Pharma India, said, "Boasting formidable efficacy, streamlined administration, and a commendable long-term safety record, Ocrevus instills fresh optimism in individuals grappling with this formidable neurological condition."

Efficacy & Benefits of Ocrevus

According to Roche Pharma India, Ocrevus has shown promising results in clinical trials and real-world data. Over 80% of individuals with RRMS and over 33% with PPMS treated with Ocrevus showed no signs of disability progression. Additionally, early initiation of Ocrevus therapy has demonstrated significant benefits, with 92% of RRMS patients not needing a walking aid and 80% of PPMS patients avoiding needing a wheelchair after 10 years of continuous treatment.

Commenting on the launch, Padma Shri Dr (Prof.) M.V Padma Srivastava, chairperson of neurology at Paras Hospitals, emphasized the distinctive features of Ocrevus compared to existing therapies for MS.

Dr Srivastava stressed the critical need for medications that can effectively manage disease activity and impede disability progression, particularly for those experiencing relapsing MS (RMS) despite available treatments.

Furthermore, Sandeep Chitnis, national honorary secretary of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), stressed the importance of early treatment initiation to minimize the impact of MS on patients' lives and extend their independence.

Roche's Global Initiatives in Healthcare

Apart from the launch of Ocrevus in India, Roche has been actively engaged in global collaborations and acquisitions to advance healthcare solutions. The company recently partnered with Boston-based PathAI to enhance companion diagnostics with AI technology, aiming to accelerate the development of precision therapeutics.

Additionally, Roche expanded its portfolio by acquiring LumiraDx's Point of Care technology, valued at $295 million, to enhance diagnostic capabilities in decentralized healthcare settings. The acquisition aligns with Roche's mission to leverage innovative technology for improved patient access to healthcare services.

The collaboration between Roche Diagnostics India and AstraZeneca Pharma India aims to improve diagnostic testing for breast cancer patients by offering comprehensive training initiatives for pathologists and medical oncologists.

Roche's acquisition of Carmot Therapeutics, a California-based anti-obesity drug developer, further strengthens its presence in the market for weight loss treatments, reflecting its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs and advancing therapeutic innovation.

Furthermore, Roche's collaboration with NVIDIA aims to accelerate drug discovery and development through AI and computational technology, demonstrating the company's dedication to innovation in healthcare.

Established in 1896, Roche has become the world's largest biotechnology company and a global leader in in-vitro diagnostics.