Ophthalmologic considerations in using antimalarials in the United States

Abstract

Ophthalmologic considerations continue to be important in the use of antimalarials. In the United States, hydroxychloroquine is prescribed much more frequently than chloroquine. Despite the favorable safety record, potential retinal problems cause patients to often be afraid to take antimalarial medicine. Ophthalmologic visits are recommended every three months by the drug manufacturer, but most often are scheduled every six months by physicians. Ophthalmologic examination includes questioning about visual symptoms, visual acuity tests, careful fundoscopic evaluation and a visual field assessment. Amsler grid self evaluation is not yet wide-spread.