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Retina·Orange, Orange County

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Treatment in Orange, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Retinal damage that can occur from long-term use of the medications chloroquine (Aralen) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), which are used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The toxicity can cause irreversible central vision loss.

Orange residents managing chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity benefit from our efficient, comprehensive appointment structure—thorough evaluation and clear treatment planning in visits designed to respect your time.

Dr. Bonakdar on Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity diagnosis and treatment for patients in Orange and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

Retinal damage that can occur from long-term use of the medications chloroquine (Aralen) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), which are used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The toxicity can cause irreversible central vision loss.

How is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity treated?

Treatment options include There is no treatment to reverse the damage., The most important step is to stop the medication if toxicity is confirmed., Regular screening with visual field testing and retinal imaging (OCT, autofluorescence) is crucial for early detection in patients taking these drugs.. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

Common symptoms include Often asymptomatic in early stages, Difficulty reading, Blurred central vision, A ring-like blind spot (paracentral scotoma), Changes in color vision. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

If you or a family member in Orange experience any of the following symptoms, scheduling an evaluation sooner rather than later leads to better outcomes:

  • Often asymptomatic in early stages
  • Difficulty reading
  • Blurred central vision
  • A ring-like blind spot (paracentral scotoma)
  • Changes in color vision

How is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity treated?

For Orange residents, we design treatment plans that balance effectiveness with convenience—minimizing follow-up visits while ensuring optimal outcomes:

There is no treatment to reverse the damage.
The most important step is to stop the medication if toxicity is confirmed.
Regular screening with visual field testing and retinal imaging (OCT, autofluorescence) is crucial for early detection in patients taking these drugs.

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity FAQs for Orange Patients

Common questions from Orange patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Orange residents appreciate our efficient diagnostic process—thorough evaluation and results discussion in a single appointment that respects your schedule.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Orange commuters, we prioritize treatments that provide stable vision for driving and work, with follow-up schedules that minimize time away from your routine.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Conveniently located for Orange residents with ample parking and easy access, typically within a 15-25 minute drive from most neighborhoods.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Care for Orange Residents

Orange patients seeking care for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Orange families trust our practice because we combine modern technology with the personal attention of a neighborhood eye doctor. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About Orange

Historic community with charming downtown and university presence

Population: 139,000+

FamiliesUniversity studentsHistoric preservationAntique enthusiasts

Languages Spoken in Orange

Our practice serves the diverse Orange community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishKorean

Eye Health Priorities for Orange

  • Whole-family eye care
  • School vision screenings
  • Contact lens fittings for all ages
  • Progressive lens consultations
  • Annual comprehensive exams

Conveniently Located Near Orange Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Orange patients living near:

Old Town Orange
Chapman University
The Outlets at Orange
St. Joseph Hospital Orange

Getting to Our Office from Orange

Drive Time
15 min
Primary Route
55 Freeway
Distance
3 mi

Orange patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 55 Freeway in approximately 15 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Orange Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Old Town Orange
  • Orange Park Acres
  • Villa Park
  • East Orange

Zip codes: 92856, 92865, 92866, 92867, 92868, 92869

Don't Delay Treatment for Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Without timely care, chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Orange patients.

Why Orange Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity changes that may not be visible during standard examination.

Early Detection Focus

Retinal conditions are often treatable when caught early—our comprehensive exams screen for pathology before symptoms appear.

Retinal Specialist Network

When Orange patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

Structured follow-up schedules ensure chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Specialist in Orange

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Orange

See why your neighbors in Orange trust us with their vision.

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"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

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Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

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Santa Ana, CA

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