Ocular safety of hydroxychloroquine

Ann Ophthalmol. 1991 Aug;23(8):292-6.

Abstract

Analysis of all published cases and Food and Drug Administration reports of retinopathy induced by hydroxychloroquine did not show any evidence of permanent visual-field scotomas occurring when the daily dose did not exceed 6.5 mg/kg body weight for maintenance therapy. Small risk factors may appear at this dosage level only when the duration of treatment exceeds ten years and/or chronic renal insufficiency is present. Because macular diseases not related to this drug commonly occur in older patients, periodic ophthalmologic examinations and central-field testing are recommended. A modified Amsler grid macular screening test is described, and participation of the treating physician in the testing program is encouraged to provide the maximum medicolegal protection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Hydroxychloroquine / adverse effects*
  • Retinal Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Retinal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Risk Factors
  • Vision Tests
  • Visual Fields

Substances

  • Hydroxychloroquine