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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Katy, TX

I have been hearing conflicting information about how often to have an eye exam while on Hydroxychloroquine; aka, Plaquenil. Initially, I heard once per year. I've seen two different ophthalmologist, one said every two years is fine, the other said once a year. Some people on my lupus team say every 6 months. I'm confused. I know we are not doctors, but what does the consensus say on this. Thanks for your input. Peace, katcove

November 28, 2017
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A MyLupusTeam Member

If you've just started taking @ plaquenil, I agree with @A MyLupusTeam Member. Get a starting diagnosis and usually it's once a year unless your having problems. It takes approximately 3 months to really get in your system and really begin giving you benefits. I always recommend the lupus.org website to do some reading on the updates on certain medications that have been researched. I've been taking plaquenil since 2006 and that is considered a long time, but I'm still not having any problems. Taking this drug is so beneficial to us lupies because it helps are flares, not flare up in an organ. Hope this helps!

November 28, 2017 (edited)
A MyLupusTeam Member

They say it’s like a one in a million odds of Plaquenil affecting your eyes, well I’m one of the million!!! What I learned a little too late is 1. See an OPHTHALMOLOGISTS (not an optometrist) right when you begin taking Plaquenil to get a base line starting point exam. 2. Check up again in a year. From there, your ophthalmologist will advise you when to return. Some ppl are every three-six months, some once a year and others every two years. Everyone is different so don’t be afraid of plaquenil, it’s a great med, just be pro active

November 28, 2017
A MyLupusTeam Member

I don’t know which is correct. I go once a year and it appears in the last few years my vision has deteriorated greatly although the opthamologist does not know why and says it not Plaquenil. Now I have a visit schedule to another specialist.

December 8, 2017
A MyLupusTeam Member

Every six months

December 1, 2017
A MyLupusTeam Member

Twice a year

December 1, 2017

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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
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