Plaquenil & Your Eyes - Clear Answers, Care You Can Trust
If you’re taking hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or another autoimmune condition, your rheumatologist has probably recommended an annual eye exam.
At Little Lake Family Eye Care in Barrie, we provide these exams with advanced OCT imaging – a non-invasive retinal scan that helps detect early signs of medication-related changes before you notice symptoms.
What Is Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy?
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is safe and effective for many patients, but long-term use can sometimes affect the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This is called hydroxychloroquine retinopathy. It typically develops slowly, without causing pain, which is why annual monitoring is crucial.
Possible retinal changes include:
- Blurred or distorted vision that makes reading or driving difficult
- Blind spots (missing areas in your central vision)
- Reduced night vision or difficulty adapting in dim light
- Permanent retinal damage if toxicity goes undetected for too long
The good news? With annual OCT scans and comprehensive eye exams, these changes can often be caught early, allowing you and your rheumatologist to make informed treatment decisions.
Why an Annual OCT Matters (and What OHIP Covers)
An OCT scan provides a detailed, cross-sectional view of the retina—something standard eye exams can’t capture. It’s the gold standard for detecting hydroxychloroquine-related changes at their earliest stages.
Key points for patients in Barrie, ON:
- OHIP fully covers annual eye exams for patients who are prescribed hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).
- At Little Lake Family Eye Care, we include an OCT retinal scan alongside the exam for complete care.
- Results are shared directly with your rheumatologist, keeping your treatment team fully informed.
This is more than just a check-up - it’s a proactive step to safeguard your sight.
Tips for Managing Vision Health in Barrie, ON
Living in Barrie comes with unique lifestyle factors that can affect your eyes when combined with hydroxychloroquine:
- Screen-heavy routines: Whether you work in tech, healthcare, or education, prolonged screen time can exacerbate visual strain.
- Cold winters & dry air: Indoor heating and winter glare can add stress to the eyes.
- Active aging population: Many patients balancing arthritis or lupus treatment here are also managing vision changes tied to aging.
What you can do:
- Keep up with your annual Plaquenil eye exam (covered by OHIP).
- Use artificial tears in dry months to support comfort.
- Take regular screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule.
- Talk openly with your optometrist about any subtle changes, even if they seem minor.
Stay Safe on Plaquenil with OHIP-Covered Eye Care in Barrie, ON
Your eyes deserve the same careful monitoring as the rest of your health. At Little Lake Family Eye Care, our optometrists combine compassionate care, advanced technology, and direct communication with your rheumatologist.
If you’re on hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), schedule your OHIP-covered exam and OCT with us. It’s a simple step that protects your vision for years to come.
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) FAQs
How does Plaquenil affect the eyes?
Plaquenil can, over time, cause damage to the retina. This may lead to blind spots or permanent vision loss if not detected early, which is why yearly OCT scans are essential.
Can I buy hydroxychloroquine over the counter?
No. Hydroxychloroquine is a prescription medication in Canada. It must be prescribed by a doctor, usually a rheumatologist, and monitored with annual eye exams.
How often should I have a Plaquenil eye exam?
Rheumatologists and optometrists recommend a comprehensive eye exam with OCT every year if you’re taking hydroxychloroquine. Regular testing ensures any early signs of retinal change are caught promptly.
