Ocrelizumab – Pregnancy Washout — SCE Neurology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateMultiple Sclerosis & CNS InflammationOcrelizumab – Pregnancy WashoutSCE Neurology

A 35-year-old woman with MS asks about pregnancy planning. She is on ocrelizumab. Her neurologist advises stopping ocrelizumab before conception. What is the recommended washout period?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — At least 6 months after the last ocrelizumab infusion before attempting conception — to allow B-cell reconstitution and reduce fetal exposure

Ocrelizumab has a long half-life and prolonged B-cell depletion. The SmPC recommends women of childbearing potential use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last infusion (reflecting the time for substantial drug clearance and partial B-cell recovery). For pregnancy planning, the last ocrelizumab infusion should be given at least 6 months before planned conception. After delivery, ocrelizumab can be restarted (it is not recommended during breastfeeding due to limited data). A: Washout is needed. C: 12 months may be unnecessary. D: 24 months is too long. E: 2 weeks is far too short.

Reference: Ocrelizumab SmPC; NICE TA533; ABN MS Guidelines (2022)