Ocrelizumab Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Dec 27, 2022.

Applies to ocrelizumab: intravenous solution.

Serious side effects of ocrelizumab

Along with its needed effects, ocrelizumab may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking ocrelizumab:

More common side effects

• back pain
• bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
• blurred vision
• body aches or pain
• chest tightness
• chills
• confusion
• cough
• difficulty with breathing
• dizziness
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
• ear congestion
• fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
• feeling of warmth
• fever
• headache
• hives, itching, or skin rash
• loss of voice
• nausea
• pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin
• rapid weight gain
• redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
• runny or stuffy nose
• sneezing
• sore throat
• sweating
• tingling of the hands or feet
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• unusual weight gain or loss
• vomiting

Less common side effects

• burning or stinging of the skin
• painful blisters on the trunk of the body
• painful cold sores or blisters on the lips, nose, eyes, or genitals

Incidence not known

• eye pain or redness
• mental changes
• stiff neck

Other side effects of ocrelizumab

Some side effects of ocrelizumab may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• diarrhea
• discouragement
• feeling sad or empty
• irritability
• lack of appetite
• loss of interest or pleasure
• trouble concentrating
• trouble sleeping

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ocrelizumab: intravenous solution.

Respiratory adverse events

• Very common (10% or more): Upper respiratory tract infection (49%), nasopharyngitis (24%), lower respiratory tract infection (10%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Bronchitis, cough^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Common (1% to 10%): Depression^[Ref]

Oncologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Breast cancer^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Back pain, pain in extremity^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Infusion reactions (40%)^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Herpes virus associated infections
• Frequency not reported: Immunogenicity^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Very common (10% or more): Neutrophil levels decreased (13%)^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Very common (10% or more): Skin infections (14%)^[Ref]

Ocular

• Common (1% to 10%): Conjunctivitis^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Common (1% to 10%): Peripheral edema^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• How much does an Ocrevus infusion cost?
• How long does it take Ocrevus to work?
• How long does an Ocrevus infusion take?
• Is Ocrevus a form of chemotherapy?
• How does Ocrevus work for MS?
• What are the new drugs used for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
• Ocrevus vs Aubagio: How do they compare for MS?

Further information

Ocrelizumab side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer