Kesimpta (Ofatumumab) is a prescription biologic medication given as a monthly self-injection to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults.

What Is Kesimpta?

Kesimpta is the brand name for Ofatumumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets a protein called CD20 on the surface of B cells. It's manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals and was approved by the FDA for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.

Key facts at a glance:

• Brand name: Kesimpta
• Generic name: Ofatumumab
• Drug class: Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (B-cell depleting therapy)
• Manufacturer: Novartis Pharmaceuticals
• Controlled substance: No
• Generic available: No
• Route: Subcutaneous injection (under the skin)

Kesimpta is part of a class of therapies known as B-cell depleting agents. For a plain-English explanation of how it works, see our article on Kesimpta's mechanism of action.

What Is Kesimpta Used For?

Kesimpta is FDA-approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis in adults. This includes:

• Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) — A first episode of neurological symptoms that may develop into MS.
• Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) — The most common form of MS, with periods of new or worsening symptoms followed by recovery.
• Active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) — A progressive form of MS that still has occasional relapses.

Kesimpta is not approved for primary progressive MS (PPMS). Some doctors may also use Ofatumumab off-label for conditions like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), though this is less common.

How Is Kesimpta Taken?

Kesimpta is self-administered as a subcutaneous injection using either a prefilled Sensoready auto-injector pen or a prefilled syringe. Each dose is 20 mg.

Dosing Schedule

1. Loading doses: One injection at Week 0, Week 1, and Week 2
2. Maintenance: One injection once per month, starting at Week 4

How to Inject

• Inject into the abdomen, thigh, or outer upper arm
• Rotate injection sites each time
• Remove from the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before injecting
• Your first injection should be supervised by a healthcare professional

Storage

Keep Kesimpta refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Keep the pen or syringe in the original carton to protect from light.

Who Should Not Take Kesimpta?

Kesimpta is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• Active hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection — Kesimpta can cause HBV reactivation, which can lead to serious liver damage. Your doctor must screen you for hepatitis B before starting treatment.
• History of life-threatening allergic reaction to Ofatumumab — If you've had a severe allergic reaction to the active ingredient or a life-threatening injection-related reaction to Kesimpta.

Additionally, you should talk to your doctor before starting Kesimpta if you:

• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose)
• Have any current infections
• Have a weakened immune system from other treatments
• Need vaccinations (live vaccines should be given at least 4 weeks before starting; inactivated vaccines at least 2 weeks before)

For a complete overview of side effects and safety concerns, read our guide to Kesimpta side effects.

How Much Does Kesimpta Cost?

Kesimpta is expensive. Without insurance, a single monthly dose costs approximately $6,800 to $7,500, putting the annual cost at roughly $82,000 to $90,000 per year.

However, most patients don't pay anywhere near that. Here's why:

• Insurance coverage: Most commercial insurance plans cover Kesimpta with prior authorization. Specialty pharmacy distribution is standard.
• Kesimpta Access Card: Novartis offers co-pay assistance for commercially insured patients — up to $18,000 per year, with many patients paying $0 out of pocket.
• Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation: Uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income criteria may receive Kesimpta for free. Apply at patient.novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254.
• Medicare patients: The Access Card does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal programs. Medicare Part D may cover Kesimpta with higher cost-sharing.

For a full breakdown of savings options, see our guide to saving money on Kesimpta.

Final Thoughts

Kesimpta represents a significant advance in MS treatment — a high-efficacy biologic that patients can self-administer at home, rather than traveling to an infusion center. Understanding how it's used, who it's for, and what it costs puts you in a stronger position to have informed conversations with your neurologist.

If you need help finding Kesimpta or checking availability, Medfinder can help you check pharmacy stock without the runaround. And if you're still looking for the right specialist, start with our guide to finding a doctor who prescribes Kesimpta.