In answer to stopping MTX: My Dr. took me off of it because of elevated liver function studies. I was having blood work done every 6wks which showed untoward effects on my liver. I was then placed on Arava (lefluenomide) instead. Along with the prednisone 2.5mgs. bid, I am feeling great. There was little or no nausea in the beginning and I didn't notice any loss of hair. I take Arava once a day and folic acid 800mgs once per day. (I get it in the vitamin section at Walmart). It has kept me in remission...my C-Reactive Protein and kidney function test have been within normal limits. I'm slightly achy when the weather changes in my hands and wrist (I live in NE OHIO), but other than that I feel fine. The only advice that I got from my Dr. was to avoid the ibupropens and naproxens with Arava, because it will affect kidney function. LB