What is a key monitoring consideration when prescribing Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine)?

When prescribing Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine), a crucial monitoring consideration is vision. This medication can potentially cause retinal toxicity, leading to serious vision problems, including vision loss if not monitored appropriately. Regular ophthalmological examinations are recommended to assess for any changes in the retina, especially in patients who are using the drug long-term or at higher doses. Awareness of signs and symptoms of visual changes is essential for early detection and intervention, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients on Plaquenil.

Other considerations such as kidney, liver, and cardiovascular health are important in the overall management of the patient, but the specific risk of retinal damage makes vision the primary focus when monitoring a patient on this specific medication.