Where and how is Kesimpta injected?
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection available as prefilled syringes and Sensoready pens. It should be injected into one of the following areas:
- Stomach (except within 2 inches of the belly button)
- Front of the thighs
- Outer upper arms (if administered by another person)
While Kesimpta may be self-administered at home, the first injection should be given under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Proper injection training is essential to ensure safe and correct use.
What Are the Recommended Injection Sites?
According to the manufacturer, Kesimpta should be injected under the skin on:
- Lower part of the stomach (excluding the 2-inch area around the belly button)
- Front of the thigh
- Outer upper arm (if administered by someone else)
If you are giving the injection to yourself, it is recommended to use the stomach or thigh as the place of injection. If someone else is giving you your Kesimpta injection, they can also inject your dose into the outer upper arm. This site is hard to reach on your own.
Avoid injecting into:
- Tender, red, or bruised skin
- Areas with moles, scars, or stretch marks
How to Administer Kesimpta?
A healthcare professional will guide you through the injection process. Follow these steps for safe administration:
1. Prepare the Injection
- Remove Kesimpta from the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature (15–30 minutes).
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the selected injection site with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry.
2. Inject Using the Correct Device
For Sensoready Pen:
- Use within 5 minutes of removing the cap.
- Hold the pen at 90 degrees to the injection site.
- Press firmly until you hear a click (injection starts), then wait for a second click (injection nearly complete).
- Continue holding until the green indicator fills the window and stops moving.
For Prefilled Syringe:
- Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle.
- Push the plunger completely down and hold for 5 seconds.
- Dispose of the Device
4. Dispose of Kesimpta
- Place the used pen or syringe into a sharps disposal container.
This is not all of the information you need to know to inject Kesimpta safely. Follow your prescriber’s directions carefully about how and when you should inject Kesimpta. Read the Instructions for Use that came with your medication, and contact your prescriber or pharmacist if you have any questions.
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References
Kesimpta [package insert]. Revised 04/2024. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation - https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6a8a3f53-2062-48ff-9dbe-b939df133ca3
Read next
Who is the actress in the Kesimpta commercial?
Jamie-Lynn Sigler, best known for her role as Meadow Soprano on the Sopranos (HBO), is the actress who appears in the 2023/2024 Kesimpta commercial. Sigler also has relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (MS).https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0797464/ Continue reading
How long can Kesimpta be out of the fridge?
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) can be kept at room temperature for up to 7 days, as long as the temperature doesn’t get higher than 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Continue reading
How long does it take for Kesimpta to work?
Kesimpta (ofatumumab) starts to work to lower B cells within a week of starting treatment. In studies, Kesimpta reduced the risk of worsening MS at 3 months of treatment. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Kesimpta Information for Consumers
- Kesimpta prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Kesimpta (detailed)
- Kesimpta user reviews (77)
Related support groups
- Kesimpta (7 questions, 3 members)
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