Hydroxychloroquine and Vision: What You Need to Know
Hydroxychloroquine, commonly known by its brand name Plaquenil®, is a medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases. While it effectively manages these chronic conditions, did you know it can also affect your vision? Long-term use of Hydroxychloroquine can potentially damage the retina, a crucial part of your eye responsible for vision.
The Impact of Hydroxychloroquine on Your Eyes
Hydroxychloroquine binds to melanin, a pigment found in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) layer of the retina. The RPE is critical in nourishing the retina and maintaining your vision. Over time, the RPE can accumulate Hydroxychloroquine, leading to changes in your vision. These changes, while rare, can be serious and irreversible if not detected early. For this reason, Hydroxychloroquine users must have their eyes examined each year to monitor for any signs of retinal toxicity.
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What Is Retinal Toxicity?
Retinal toxicity occurs when the retina is damaged by a substance, in this case, Hydroxychloroquine. Studies show that as many as 7.5% of patients taking Hydroxychloroquine may experience visual changes related to retinal toxicity. These changes can include difficulty reading, seeing fine details, or noticing subtle changes in color vision.
Retinal Toxicity Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing retinal toxicity:
- Duration of Use: Prolonged use of Hydroxychloroquine, especially over five years, increases the risk of retinal damage
- High Dosage: Taking doses that exceed the recommended limit based on your body weight can elevate the risk
- Age: Individuals aged 60 and older are at a higher risk due to natural aging processes in the eyes
- Kidney Disease: Reduced kidney function can slow the clearance of Hydroxychloroquine from your body, leading to higher concentrations in the retina
- Pre-existing Retinal Conditions: You may have a heightened risk if you have other eye diseases or conditions affecting the retina
What to Expect During a Hydroxychloroquine Exam?
Vista Eye Care offers comprehensive exams designed for patients taking Hydroxychloroquine. These exams detect early signs of retinal toxicity before significant vision loss occurs.
The components of our Hydroxychloroquine exam include:
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Exam in Thornton
Regular eye exams are essential to protect your vision if you're taking Hydroxychloroquine. Vista Eye Care's experienced team is here to help you stay ahead of any potential complications from your medication. Don’t wait until you notice changes in your vision — schedule an annual Hydroxychloroquine exam with us to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your vision is protected.