Ofatumumab is a powerful immunomodulator medicine used to treat selected severe autoimmune eye conditions by suppressing the immune system.
| Drug class | Biologic (Anti-CD20) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Subcutaneous / IV |
| Common strength | Varies |
| Common Indian brands | Kesimpta, Arzerra |
| Prescription status | Prescription |
What Ofatumumab is used for
Ofatumumab is a powerful medicine used to treat selected severe autoimmune eye conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. These are often complex conditions where your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in your eyes, leading to inflammation and damage.
Specifically, Ofatumumab is used for:
- Selected refractory autoimmune ocular disease
Refractory means that the condition has been difficult to treat or has not improved with other standard therapies. Your eye specialist will determine if Ofatumumab is the right treatment for your specific condition.
How it works
Ofatumumab is an immunomodulator, which means it works by adjusting the activity of your immune system. It belongs to a special group of medicines called biologics, specifically an ‘Anti-CD20’ medicine.
To understand how it works, imagine your immune system has different types of cells that help fight infections. One type of these cells is called B cells. In autoimmune diseases, sometimes these B cells become overactive or contribute to the immune system mistakenly attacking your own body.
Ofatumumab works by targeting and depleting (reducing the number of) these specific B cells. By reducing these B cells, the medicine helps to calm down the overactive immune response that is causing inflammation and damage in your eyes. This helps to control the autoimmune condition and reduce its effects.
How it’s used
Ofatumumab is a specialist medicine and its use is carefully planned by your doctor. It is administered either as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) or directly into a vein (intravenous). The specific method, dose, and frequency of administration will be determined by your eye specialist based on your individual condition and response to treatment.
It is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding the administration schedule. Do not miss any doses or change your treatment plan without consulting your specialist. Regular monitoring by your healthcare team will be an important part of your treatment journey with Ofatumumab.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Kesimpta
- Arzerra
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Please note
Powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting, and it raises the risk of infection. Used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring.
Precautions & side effects
Ofatumumab is a powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system, and therefore requires careful consideration and monitoring. Here are some important precautions:
- Specialist Use: This medicine must only be used under the direct supervision of an eye specialist or a doctor experienced in treating autoimmune conditions.
- Infection Risk: Because Ofatumumab suppresses your immune system, it significantly raises your risk of developing infections. You will need to be screened for certain infections before starting treatment.
- Screening Required: Before you begin treatment with Ofatumumab, your doctor will usually conduct screening tests for tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis. It is very important to complete these screenings as advised.
- Regular Monitoring: Throughout your treatment, your doctor will conduct regular monitoring to check for any side effects or complications, especially infections.
- Report Symptoms: It is crucial to report any signs of infection (such as fever, chills, sore throat, cough, unusual tiredness, skin rashes, or painful urination) to your doctor immediately.
- Vaccinations: Discuss your vaccination history and any planned vaccinations with your doctor before starting Ofatumumab, as some vaccines may not be safe to receive while on this medication.
- Prescription Only: Ofatumumab is a prescription-only medicine and should never be used without a doctor’s prescription and guidance.
Always communicate openly with your healthcare team about your medical history, any other medicines you are taking, and any concerns you may have.
Understanding Autoimmune Eye Conditions
Our eyes are incredibly complex organs, and sometimes, for reasons not fully understood, our body’s own immune system can mistakenly identify parts of the eye as foreign invaders. When this happens, the immune system launches an attack, leading to inflammation, redness, pain, blurred vision, and potentially damage to the eye’s delicate structures. These are known as autoimmune eye conditions. They can affect various parts of the eye, from the front (like the cornea or iris) to the back (like the retina or optic nerve). Unlike common infections, autoimmune conditions are chronic, meaning they are long-lasting and require ongoing management. The goal of treatment is to control the inflammation, prevent further damage, preserve vision, and improve your quality of life. Because these conditions are often complex and can be severe, they require careful diagnosis and treatment by an eye specialist.
General Advice for Managing Your Eye Health
When you are undergoing treatment for an eye condition, especially with a powerful medicine like Ofatumumab, it’s essential to take good care of your overall health and follow some general hygiene practices. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your eyes or handling any medication. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can introduce germs or worsen irritation. If you wear contact lenses, discuss with your doctor whether you should continue using them during your treatment. Proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and managing stress can also support your immune system and overall well-being. Keep all your medical appointments, as regular check-ups and monitoring are vital to ensure your treatment is working effectively and to catch any potential side effects early. Always store your medicines as directed by your pharmacist or doctor, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
When to Seek Medical Help
It’s crucial to know when to contact your doctor or seek urgent medical attention while on Ofatumumab. As this medicine suppresses your immune system, you are at a higher risk of infections. Therefore, if you experience any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, persistent cough, sore throat, unusual tiredness, skin rashes, or pain when urinating, contact your doctor immediately. Also, report any new or worsening eye symptoms, such as sudden changes in vision, increased redness, severe eye pain, or sensitivity to light. If you experience any severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash, seek emergency medical help right away. Always keep a list of your medications handy and inform any healthcare provider you see that you are taking Ofatumumab. Your healthcare team at Pristine Eye Hospitals is here to support you, so never hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ofatumumab used for?
Ofatumumab is a powerful medicine used to treat selected severe autoimmune eye conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. These are conditions where your immune system mistakenly attacks your own eye tissues.
How does Ofatumumab work?
Ofatumumab works by targeting and reducing the number of specific immune cells called B cells. By depleting these B cells, it helps to calm down the overactive immune response that causes inflammation and damage in autoimmune eye conditions.
What are the common brands of Ofatumumab available in India?
In India, Ofatumumab may be available under the brand names Kesimpta and Arzerra.
How is Ofatumumab administered?
Ofatumumab is administered either as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) or directly into a vein (intravenous). The specific method and dosing schedule will be determined by your eye specialist.
Do I need a prescription for Ofatumumab?
Yes, Ofatumumab is a prescription-only medicine. It must only be used under the direct supervision of an eye specialist or a doctor experienced in treating autoimmune conditions.
What are the key precautions I should be aware of when taking Ofatumumab?
Ofatumumab suppresses your immune system, increasing your risk of infections. You will need screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis before starting treatment. It must be used under specialist supervision with regular monitoring, and you should report any signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
References
- The real-world safety of Ofatumumab: a pharmacovigilance analysis based on the FDA adverse event reporting system – PMC
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.