Most of us trust that the medications we take are doing more good than harm—but what if some of them are quietly affecting your vision? Macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, may be linked to certain widely used medications.

seven medications that could be putting your eyesight at risk.

1. Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine

Originally prescribed for malaria and autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, these drugs are known to affect the retina with long-term use. Retinal toxicity can lead to permanent vision damage—especially in high doses or prolonged use.

2. Tamoxifen

This breast cancer drug is a lifesaver for many—but it’s not without side effects. Some patients experience changes in vision, and rare cases have shown signs of macular damage after extended use. Annual eye exams are crucial if you’re on this medication.

3. Plaquenil

A brand name for hydroxychloroquine, Plaquenil is often prescribed for arthritis and lupus. While effective, it’s been associated with retinopathy, which can progress to macular degeneration if not detected early.

4. Niacin (Vitamin B3 in High Doses)

Yes, even vitamins aren’t off the hook. High doses of niacin, often taken to improve cholesterol, have been linked to a condition called maculopathy—reversible in some, but potentially damaging if ignored.

5. Phenothiazines (e.g., Thorazine)

Used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, these medications have been shown to cause pigmentary changes in the retina, a precursor to more serious macular issues.

6. Corticosteroids

While helpful for inflammation, corticosteroids like prednisone may increase intraocular pressure and contribute to macular problems, especially when used long-term.

7. Amiodarone

This heart medication helps regulate irregular rhythms—but it can also lead to optic neuropathy and macular damage in some cases. Vision changes should never be ignored with this drug.

What Should You Do?

Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. If you're taking any of these medications, especially long-term, consider asking your doctor about regular eye screenings. Early detection is key to preventing irreversible damage.