When it comes to certain medications, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), monitoring and safeguarding your eye health is of utmost importance. Hydroxychloroquine is a drug commonly prescribed for conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite its effectiveness in managing these conditions, it can pose a risk of retinal toxicity. Eye care professionals play a critical role in monitoring the potential side effects of high-risk medications like hydroxychloroquine. In this blog, we will explore the significance of eye care in overseeing and protecting your vision when taking such medications.
Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug that has demonstrated effectiveness in managing autoimmune diseases. However, there is a known risk of retinal toxicity associated with its long-term use. Retinal toxicity refers to damage to the retina, a critical part of the eye responsible for vision. This toxicity can result in irreversible vision loss if not detected and managed promptly.
Eye care professionals, including ophthalmologists and optometrists, play a crucial role in monitoring patients who are taking high-risk medications like hydroxychloroquine. Here are some key aspects of their involvement:
Before starting hydroxychloroquine treatment, it is recommended to undergo a comprehensive eye examination. This includes a thorough assessment of the retina, measurements of visual acuity, and specialized tests, such as visual field testing and optical coherence tomography (OCT). These baseline examinations create a foundation for comparison during future visits, enabling the detection of any changes that may indicate retinal toxicity.
Regular eye examinations are vital for individuals taking hydroxychloroquine or other high-risk medications. These examinations usually occur every six to twelve months, depending on the individual’s specific circumstances. During these visits, the eye care professional evaluates visual acuity, performs retinal examinations, and may employ specialized tests like OCT and visual field testing to detect any signs of retinal toxicity.
Eye care professionals also have a responsibility to educate patients about the potential risks and proper management of high-risk medications. Patients must be aware of the signs and symptoms of retinal toxicity, such as blurred vision, difficulty seeing in dim light, or visual disturbances. Prompt reporting of any changes to their eye care professional is essential for early detection and intervention.
Effective communication and collaboration between eye care professionals and prescribing physicians are key to ensuring the accurate monitoring of patients on high-risk medications. Patient medical history, dosages, and treatment duration are important pieces of information that aid in risk assessment and decision-making regarding ongoing medication use.
While the responsibility of monitoring retinal toxicity lies with eye care professionals, patients can also take steps to protect their vision while taking high-risk medications like hydroxychloroquine:
Open and Honest Communication: Inform your eye care professional about any high-risk medication use, including the dosage and duration.
Follow Prescribed Dosages: Stick to the prescribed dosage of your medication and avoid self-adjustments.
Regular Eye Examinations: Adhere to the recommended schedule of eye exams. Regular monitoring is crucial for early detection of potential retinal toxicity.
Report Any Changes: If you experience any changes in your vision or other visual symptoms, such as glare or difficulty reading, notify your eye care professional promptly.
Knowledge is Power: Educate yourself about the potential side effects and risk factors associated with your medication.
Our eye doctor at Local Eyes Optometry in New Braunfels, TX excels in the prescription of glasses, contact lenses, and the diagnosis of a variety of eye diseases. Call our optometrist at (830) 627-9272 or schedule an eye exam appointment online if you would like to learn more about hydroxychloroquine. Our eye doctor, Dr. Marcus Page, provides the highest quality optometry services and eye exams in New Braunfels, Texas.