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     I was really scared of all the side effects at first.  I must have went over the side effects a hundred times!  I finally came to the realization, after much research, that they have to list every possible side effect ever experienced by anyone!  I started off (after dragging my feet for 3 months) with Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).  I took it for 1 month.  I had allergic reactions (rash all over, nausea, etc.) and after a visit to my Rheumy, stopped taking it.  My Rheumy then prescribed Mtx ("The Meth.).  I dragged my feet again for 1 month before starting to take it.  The huge list of side effects plus my recent reactions with the Plaquenil, toyed with my brain for a while.  I have been taking it for 2 months now, and so far so good.  My blood work it good.  It does not seem to be working as well as the Plaquenil.  Even though I had an allergic reaction to it, it seemed to make me feel better.  I'm headed back to my Rheumy in a few days, and I'm assuming we will be increasing my dosage.       For me, quality of life was the deciding factor.  Good luck with your med.'s.  You can do it!