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I've also had a huge reduction in my nearsightedness over the last five years and was wondering if it had anything to do with the hydroxychloroquine?

April 15
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A MyLupusTeam Member

I had to stop Plaquenil will I have bad side affects.

May 14
MyLupusTeam

Has hydroxychloroquine affected your nearsightedness over the years?

Hydroxychloroquine can cause eye problems, particularly retinal damage with long-term use. The medication can cause permanent damage to the eye, especially for people who use it for longer than five years or take higher doses.

Common eye symptoms from Show Full Answer

Has hydroxychloroquine affected your nearsightedness over the years?

Hydroxychloroquine can cause eye problems, particularly retinal damage with long-term use. The medication can cause permanent damage to the eye, especially for people who use it for longer than five years or take higher doses.

Common eye symptoms from hydroxychloroquine toxicity include central vision loss and decreased night vision. However, changes in nearsightedness aren't typically listed as a known effect of the medication.

Since you've been on Plaquenil for 13 years, you're at higher risk for eye complications. It's excellent that your doctor caught the early signs of toxicity and recommended stopping the medication.

It's important to discuss your nearsightedness changes directly with your eye doctor. They can determine whether this is related to the hydroxychloroquine toxicity or if it's a separate issue. Your ophthalmologist will need to continue monitoring your eyes even after stopping the medication, as hydroxychloroquine stays in your system for about three months.

Keep in mind that stopping hydroxychloroquine may cause your lupus symptoms to flare, so work closely with your rheumatologist to find an alternative treatment plan.

April 15

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