Like all medicines hydroxychloroquine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine. Read more about what to expect when starting hydroxychloroquine(external link).
Problems with your eyesight
Hydroxychloroquine can affect your eyesight. Blurred vision may occur in the first few weeks after starting it. This usually returns to normal even when you continue taking the tablets. Talk to your doctor if you are worried.
Taking hydroxychloroquine over a long time (more than 5 years) can cause damage to your eyes. You will need an eye test in your first year of treatment, and another one after 5 years (unless your doctor decides you need one sooner).
After 5 years of treatment, you will need to have an eye test every year. If you notice any changes in your eyesight, such as sensitivity to light, blurred vision, seeing light flashes, streaks or black spots, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Also wear sunglasses when in bright sunlight to protect your eyes.
Other side effects
| Side effects |
What should I do? |
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Stomach upset
|
- Take hydroxychloroquine with food or a glass of milk.
|
|
|
- Sit down for a while until the feeling of dizziness passes.
- Tell your doctor if troublesome.
|
- Changes to your heart rate
|
- Tell your doctor immediately or phone Healthline 0800 611 116.
|
- Changes to your hair, skin or nails
|
|
- Emotional or mood changes
|
- Tell your doctor immediately or phone Healthline 0800 611 116.
|
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rashes, itching, blisters, peeling skin, swelling of your face, lips or mouth or having problems breathing
|
- Tell your doctor immediately or phone Healthline 0800 611 116.
|
| Did you know that you can report a side effect to a medicine to CARM (Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring)? Report a side effect to a product(external link) |
