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Where and how is Kesimpta injected?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on March 28, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

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.

Related questions

References

Kesimpta [package insert]. Revised 04/2024. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation - https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6a8a3f53-2062-48ff-9dbe-b939df133ca3

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