Hydroxychloroquine is a medicine usually prescribed by a rheumatologist or dermatologist to modify the body’s immune response. It reduces swelling (inflammation), pain, joint stiffness and rashes in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome and photosensitive skin conditions.

Hydroxychloroquine can cause damage to the retina (the light sensitive cells at the back of the eye) when taken for long periods of time and/or in high doses. This is known as retinal toxicity or retinopathy. There are also other factors that can increase an individual’s risk, such as use of tamoxifen and impaired kidney function.